Annual Report 2014-2015 - Acres

Annual

Report

2014-2015

ACRES Annual Report 2014/2015| 91 Jalan Lekar S(698917)

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CCOONNTTEENNTTSS

Introduction ………………………………………………………………………………. Pg 2

ACRES Message …………………………………………………………………………. Pg 5

Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation …………………………………………….. Pg 6

Tackling the Wildlife Trade …………………………………………………………. Pg 44

Humane Education ……………………………………………………………………. Pg 48

Community Outreach ………………………………………………………………… Pg 59

Addressing Zoo Animal Welfare …………………………………………………. Pg 89

Other News…………………………..……………………………………………………. Pg 91

Media Coverage…………………………………………………………………………. Pg 96

Auditor’s Report …………………………………………………….………………….. Pg 97


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IINNTTRROODDUUCCTTIIOONN

ACRES (Animal Concerns Research & Education Society) is a pioneering Singapore-based

charity and Institution of Public Character (UEN T01SS0121K), founded by Singaporeans in

2001 with the aim of promoting animal welfare. ACRES was registered as a society on

24th May 2001 (Registration No.: 0176/2001). It was registered under the Charities Act on

11th January 2005 (Registration No.: 1849) and registered as an Institution of Public

Character on 1st June 2007 (Registration no. IPC000559).

OUR VISION

A world where animals are treated with compassion and respect.

OUR MISSION

To create a caring and socially responsible society where animals are treated as sentient

beings.

OUR AMBITION

To drive forward a collaborative and sustainable animal protection movement in Asia.

OUR OBJECTIVES

To foster respect and compassion for all animals.

To improve the living conditions and welfare of animals in captivity.

To educate people on lifestyle choices which do not involve the abuse of animals

and which are environment-friendly.

In all projects undertaken:

- We aim for the research to result in practical changes for the animals.

- Our approach is Scientific, Creative, Practical and Positive.

ACRES is an animal protection organisation, driven by our concern for animals. We adopt

research projects on the use of animals in various fields and use our findings to educate the

public, empowering them with knowledge to make a positive difference for animals. We

strongly believe in promoting community involvement in addressing animal protection

issues and in building partnerships with all related bodies and the authorities to improve

animal welfare.

ACRES ADDRESS: 91 Jalan Lekar Singapore 69891


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OUR SIX FOCUS AREAS:

WILDLIFE RESCUE & REHABILITATION

In 2009, we opened the ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre (AWRC) in Singapore. We now rescue,

treat and rehabilitate hundreds of wild animals every year, some from the illegal exotic pet

trade and others native to our own forests that are found injured, lost or disorientated. We

run our wildlife rescue services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The AWRC is a no kill

shelter.

TACKLING THE WILDLIFE TRADE

Singapore is considered one of the top ten illegal wildlife trading hubs globally. This trade

subjects billions of animals to pain and suffering, and threatens to wipe out countless

species. At ACRES, we combat this wildlife trade through our 24-hour Wildlife Crime

Hotline, undercover investigations, public awareness programmes, joint efforts with the

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) industry and collaborations with other NGOs and the

government. Our investigations have led to the capture of many wildlife criminals. Our

campaigns and engagements with the government have led to vast improvements to

national wildlife protection laws.

HUMANE EDUCATION

We never forget that the key to ending animal abuse is education. Our talks, roadshows and

Humane Education programmes touch a wide cross section of society, from children in

kindergarten to the elderly in the heartland, reaching over 100,000 individuals each year.

We travel to schools as well as malls, both downtown and in the heartland. And almost

every other day, we get a busload of school children visiting our Education Centre and

Outdoor Conservation Classroom at the AWRC. Our aim is to encourage empathy,

compassion and respect for animals as well as other human beings, and to inspire and

empower children to change their world for the better.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Our volunteer opportunities promote volunteerism in Singapore and create a more caring

and compassionate society. We also distribute grants for local animal protection projects,

organise conferences and forums and encourage people to become involved in global

animal protection campaigns.

ADDRESSING ZOO ANIMAL WELFARE

We also conduct scientific investigations into the welfare of animals in zoos and marine

parks throughout Asia. We use our findings to raise the standards of captive environments

across the region, to ensure that at least the basic needs of the animals are met and to end

cruel and exploitative circus-style animal shows. Our work with the zoo community,


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governments and local NGOs has led to improved welfare standards at zoos in Singapore,

Malaysia and Japan.

PROMOTING CRUELTY-FREE LIVING

Through our Cruelty-Free Living educational materials, we raise awareness about a wide

range of household products, food items and fashion accessories that are either tested on

animals or cause needless suffering and death in animal labs and factory farms. Our aim is

to get consumers to make more humane, considerate and compassionate choices in their

daily life.

ACRES is an animal protection organisation, driven by our concern for animals. We adopt

research projects on the use of animals in various fields and use our findings to educate the

public, empowering them with knowledge to make a positive difference for animals. We

strongly believe in promoting community involvement in addressing animal protection

issues and in building partnerships with all related bodies and the authorities to improve

animal welfare.

EEXXEECCUUTTIIVVEE BBOOAARRDD

AACCRREESS DDIIRREECCTTOORRSS

Position Name Date elected

President Umapathi Thirugnanam 22/07/14

Vice-President Daryl George Epimaco 22/07/14

Treasurer Chan Shuping Juliana Maria 22/07/14

Secretary Andrew Tay Teck Lee 22/07/14

Committee member Ng Teck Chuang Cyril 22/07/14

Committee member Wong Pomp Hin 22/07/14

Position Name Monthly Salary

Chief Executive Louis Ng $2960

Group Director Advocacy Amy Corrigan $2660

Group Director Wildlife Anbarasi Boopal $2660


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AACCRREESS MMEESSSSAAGGEE

On behalf of ACRES, I’m delighted to share the progress made in our efforts to protect

animals and end animal cruelty, in this Annual Report for the financial year 2014-2015. Of

course, our work is only made possible with the ongoing support of our donors, partners

and volunteers, whose contributions are highlighted in this report and to whom we extend

our heartfelt thanks.

This year, our wildlife rescue efforts in Singapore have continued to develop, as we expand

and improve the facilities at the ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre.

We’re going all out in our efforts to fight wildlife crime and end animal cruelty, with the

launch of our new Animal Crime Investigation Unit.

And the core of our work remains our advocacy efforts, and this year we were thrilled to be

recognised by the Singapore Advocacy Awards.

But we never forget that tackling the root of the problems is the

key to ending animal cruelty. That’s why our outreach work,

through which we engage, educate and inspire the community,

remains so important.

With your help, ACRES continues to be the voice for the voiceless.

On behalf of the animals, thank you for your support.

Yours sincerely,

Louis Ng

Founder and Chief Executive

ACRES


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WILDLIFE RESCUE AND REHABILITATION

One of the most visible aspects of our work is our hands-on wildlife rescue operations, with

our dedicated Wildlife Rescue Team on the road every day and night of the year, and

working round the clock at the ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre (AWRC). Whether it’s rescuing

and rehabilitating an abandoned victim of the illegal exotic pet trade, or rushing to the aid

of an injured or trapped wild animal and releasing him or her back into the wild, each and

every rescue is so important to us, and is only made possible with the support of our

donors.

ACRES operates Singapore’s only dedicated wildlife rescue service,

with our Wildlife Rescue Team on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year,

to go to the aid of wild animals in need in Singapore. ACRES also

operates the dedicated ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre (AWRC), which

serves as a safe sanctuary for victims of the illegal wildlife trade, as

well as a place for native wild animals to recuperate before being

released back into the wild.

Between 1st April 2014 and 31st March 2015, a total of 5,287 calls were

made to the 24-Hour ACRES Wildlife

Rescue Hotline (97837782), resulting

in a total of 3,163 wild animals being rescued- including

animals from the illegal exotic pet trade (who are

frequently found abandoned in public areas), as well as

injured, trapped or displaced native wild animals. 1,756

native wild animals were successfully released back into the

wild.

Our deepest thanks go to the SPH Foundation, which this

year continues to generously sponsor the diesel for the

wildlife rescue van.

1. EXOTIC WILD ANIMAL RESCUES

The ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre (AWRC) serves as a safe sanctuary for exotic wild animals

rescued from the illegal wildlife trade. Many of these animals have been found abandoned

in public areas and stand little chance of survival in Singapore’s environment, to which they

are not adapted. Leaving them roaming freely in Singapore is not only harmful to them; it is

also extremely damaging to Singapore’s fragile native ecosystem, as introduced exotic


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species will compete with native species for food and may introduce foreign diseases,

causing catastrophic imbalances in the native ecosystem.

Most of the exotic animals we rescue would have been cruelly smuggled into Singapore,

perhaps hidden in suitcases, boxes or crates, and sent on long, uncomfortable journeys with

no food or water. Once in Singapore they may have been kept in inappropriate conditions in

people’s homes, with inadequate space, improper environment and nutrient- deficient

diets, before being callously dumped. The majority of the exotic animals we take in are in

extremely poor physical condition and need specialised veterinary care.

As of the 31st of March 2015, the AWRC was housing 170 wild animals rescued from the

exotic pet trade in Singapore, of the following species:

• Anderson’s flapshell turtle (1)

• Chinese softshell turtle (3)

• Common snapping turtle (2)

• Cuban slider (3)

• Eastern snake-necked turtle (1)

• Giant Asian pond turtle (4)

• Green iguana (8)

• Hermann’s tortoise (2)

• Indian star tortoise (101)

• Leopard gecko (1)

• Leopard tortoise (1)

• Pig-nosed turtle (25)

• Red-footed tortoise (2)

• African spurred (sulcata) tortoise (2)

• Ball python (10)

• Blood python/ Bornean short python (2)

• Burmese python (1)

• California mountain king snake (1)

We are actively researching the possibility of sending these animals to rescue centres in

their countries of origin, which is our ultimate aim for as many of the animals as possible.

This year, we have been made encouraging progress with our repatriation efforts, although

the process is extremely lengthy and complicated.

Read on to learn more about some of the animals we rescued this year from the illegal

exotic pet trade.


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1.1 GARRIX, GREEN IGUANA

In May 2014, Garrix, a juvenile green iguana, was found wandering along an urban street;

either a victim of irresponsible illegal pet ownership and abandonment, or an escapee.

Garrix had an injured lower lip. Thankfully, Garrix recovered well from his ordeal and his

injuries and is now living with other iguanas of a similar size whom he gets on well with.

Garrix is a very agile and alert iguana, and does not like being handled at all!

1.2 JUNIE, INDIAN STAR TORTOISE

Junie was found lying injured and motionless on a busy road in June 2014. As well as

suffering from fresh injuries, cracks throughout her shell indicated that she had also

suffered from old fractures which were now healing. We can only imagine what suffering

she had been through due to probable neglect, mistreatment and abandonment. Thankfully,

Junie proved to be a good eater, and was soon munching her way to regaining her strength

and recovering. She is now a very active and alert tortoise, living with others in an outdoor

enclosure.


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1.3 CZECH, INDIAN STAR TORTOISE

In August 2014, a male star tortoise was found abandoned and brought to the ACRES

Wildlife Rescue Centre (AWRC). Czech, as we named him, was in very poor physical

condition, and it soon became apparent that he had a very poor appetite. He had a host of

physical problems, including a lack of bowel movements, poor bone density and gastro-

intestinal infections. All of these problems had no doubt been caused by improper care

during his time as an illegal pet, and also malnutrition following his abandonment. His case

was so severe that for a time he needed to have a surgically-placed feeding tube in place to

make sure that he ingested some food. Thankfully, as a result of lots of attention and care

from the ACRES team, Czech made a full recovery and now has a very good appetite and is

in a much better state of health. He now spends his days exploring his outdoor enclosure

with his enclosure mates.

1.4 AMBER, AFRICAN SPURRED TORTOISE

In September 2014, a large female African spurred tortoise (also known as the sulcata

tortoise) was found wandering along Upper Thomson Road. The ACRES Wildlife Rescue

Team safely collected her and took her to the AWRC. At 17kg, she is the largest tortoise in

our care. She now lives in an outdoor enclosure with another African spurred tortoise called

Lola. Our caregivers have to keep making repairs to the enclosure as giant Amber destroys

everything in her path! Amber has a good appetite and gets on well with Lola.


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1.5 DODGE, BALL PYTHON

Poor Dodge was discarded like a piece of garbage – abandoned in a tank placed beside a

litter bin at the lift lobby of an HDB block in October 2014. Dodge was rescued by ACRES and

now lives at the AWRC, where he is proving to be a very active and alert snake.

1.6 SCYTHER, GREEN IGUANA

Scyther is a green iguana who was found at a fish farm in the Sungei Tengah area in

November 2014, struggling to survive by catching and eating fish from the ponds. He was

probably abandoned by his owner, or he could have escaped. Scyther had flesh wounds to

his face and necrotic and peeling tissue around his jaw, possibly from being kept in an

unsuitable environment, such as a small cage or tank, and rubbing his face along the side.

He was a difficult iguana to handle at first, due to all the pain he was experiencing. It took

over three months of treatment and good food for him to recover. We’re delighted that

Scyther’s skin cells have now recovered, and he is an active and agile iguana with a big

appetite for both his food and life!


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1.7 BULBASAUR AND VENUSAUR, INDIAN STAR TORTOISES

In November 2014, we received a call alerting us to two Indian star tortoises that had been

abandoned in a cardboard box at a void deck of an HDB block. As well as the two tortoises,

one male and one female, the box also contained seven tortoise eggs. After undergoing

their period in quarantine, both tortoises were moved to outdoor enclosures, with Venusaur

joining a large group of female star tortoises and Bulbasaur joining some other males (like

most rescue centres we have a no-breeding policy). Both tortoises are doing well in their

new safe home.

1.8 SPOT, PIG-NOSED TURTLE

In November 2014, a pig-nosed turtle that had been kept as a pet was handed over to the

AWRC. Like many of the turtles we rescue from unsuitable living conditions, Spot had a host

of health problems, including an infected carapace (shell). Spot continues to recover well,

his infections have cleared up, and he has a good appetite.


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1.9 ZORRO, GREEN IGUANA

In November 2014, someone spotted a small green iguana falling from the 8th storey of an

HDB block of flats, and called the ACRES Wildlife Rescue Hotline. We were soon on the

scene, and found that “Zorro” had survived the fall, albeit with a broken tail. After some

time recovering in our Quarantine unit, Zorro was introduced to three other young iguanas

at the AWRC and is now cohabiting happily with them.

1.10 WALNUT, RED-FOOTED TORTOISE

In December 2014, Walnut, a red-footed tortoise, was found in Pasir Ris Park. He was weak

and dehydrated, with all four legs covered in rotting wounds resulting from a skin infection.

Through intensive care, Walnut has since recovered and has started eating well. Walnut is

now enjoying the outdoor environment at our Main Sanctuary Area, where he shares a

naturalistic enclosure with Peanut, another red-footed tortoise. Walnut and Peanut are the

best of friends, and can often be seen resting side by side basking in the midday heat.


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1.11 AMMU, INDIAN STAR TORTOISE

Ammu’s rescue in January 2015 marked the end of 20 years of living in a sink. That’s right;

poor Ammu had spent her life as an illegally-kept pet inside a tiny sink, existing on an

inadequate diet of carrots and lettuce. Somehow she survived, but it is likely that she’s

suffered some long-term damage as a result of this neglect; only time will tell. For now, we

are making sure that her life is as good as it can be, and she spends her days feeling the

earth and grass beneath her feet, gazing up at the sky and enjoying the companionship of

her enclosure mates - things that she was denied for so long.

1.12 GARNET, AFRICAN SPURRED TORTOISE

Garnet is a tiny African spurred tortoise – the smallest tortoise at the AWRC- rescued in

January 2015. Garnet was found abandoned outside a veterinary clinic. She is doing well in

our care, and is very active and alert. However, she is still too small to move to one of our

outdoor enclosures, so for now she’s living inside our Quarantine building, eating and

growing until she’s big enough to go outside!


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2. NATIVE WILDLIFE RESCUES

Any time of day or night, 365 days a year, our Wildlife Rescue Team is on call to help native

wild animals in need all over Singapore.

We will rescue any wild animal in need of help. As well as rescuing injured wild animals, the

ACRES Wildlife Rescue Team is increasingly being called to relocate wild animals from

people’s homes as an alternative to calling pest control companies. As Singapore’s urban

jungle continues to expand and replace the green kind, our native wild animals are sadly

finding themselves with fewer and fewer places to call home, and some are making their

way into people’s homes, where they may get injured and where they are not always

welcome.

This year we have rescued individuals of the following species:

Reptiles: Malayan box turtle, Asiatic soft-shelled turtle, black marsh terrapin, water monitor

lizard, clouded monitor lizard, changeable lizard, reticulated python, elegant bronzeback,

striped bronzeback, Kopstein’s bronzeback, oriental whip snake, striped kukri snake,

Wagler’s pit viper, mangrove viper, mangrove cat snake, equatorial spitting cobra, paradise

tree snake, common wolf snake, dog-faced water snake, twin-barred tree snake, white-

bellied rat snake, brahminy blind snake, dog-toothed cat snake, common Malayan racer,

king cobra and red-tailed racer.

Birds: Rock pigeon, spotted dove, cinnamon bittern, black bittern, house crow, Eurasian tree

sparrow, oriental pied hornbill, zebra dove, yellow bittern, black-naped oriole, tailor bird,

olive-backed sunbird, collared kingfisher, common kingfisher, oriental dwarf kingfisher, grey

heron, large-tailed nightjar, barn owl, oriental scops owl, spotted wood owl, changeable

hawk eagle, sparrow hawk, crested goshawk, mangrove pitta, blue-winged pitta, pink-

necked green pigeon, little green pigeon, yellow-vented bulbul, common mynah, white-

vented mynah, long-tailed parakeet and white-breasted waterhen.


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Mammals: Eurasian wild pig, plantain squirrel, dog-faced fruit bat, cave nectar bat, yellow

house bat, naked bulldog bat, narrow-winged pipistrelle, variable squirrel, common tree

shrew, Sunda pangolin, long-tailed macaque, Malayan colugo, common palm civet.

Sadly, not all of the native wild animals that we rescue survive. Some are so badly injured or

suffering from such severe shock that they pass away. But, in most cases, the animals are

able to return to the wild, once we are sure they are fit and healthy and we have given them

any veterinary treatment needed. This year, we successfully released 1,756 rescued wild

animals back into the wild, working together with the National Parks Board (NParks) to

establish appropriate release sites.

Read on to learn more about some of the native wild animals rescued this year.

2.1 CYAN, MALAYAN WATER MONITOR

Cyan is a monitor lizard who was found roaming around the grounds of a condo in May

2014. Unfortunately for Cyan, the condo’s handyman felt that it was appropriate to capture

Cyan and bind his limbs together with string so that he couldn’t move. Thankfully, ACRES

was alerted to this case, and we were able to free Cyan and check him for injuries, before

moving him to a more appropriate location for release. After releasing Cyan, our next

priority was to educate the handyman on why this course of action was wrong for both Cyan

and for him: not only was Cyan stressed out and hurt, but the handyman put himself in

danger by handling the monitor lizard, who could bite or thrash his tail in defence.


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2.2, BUBBA, YELLOW-VENTED BULBUL

In May 2014, we rescued a fledgling yellow-vented bulbul who had been found stranded on

the ground, with no parents or nest in sight. We couldn’t tell where the fledgling had come

from, and he would surely have perished if left alone. On the same day at the ACRES Wildlife

Rescue Centre, a storm had damaged the nest of a resident pair of wild yellow vented

bulbuls and their two fledglings had fallen from the nest. The parents were very distressed,

creating quite a scene. Sadly, one of the fledglings died. We decided to introduce the

rescued fledgling to this family, replacing the one who had died. We kept our fingers crossed

that Bubba would be accepted. To our surprise and joy, it worked perfectly! We reinforced

the branches around the nest to make it more secure, and left the family to get acquainted

with each other.

2.3 ROBIN, INSECTIVOROUS BAT

Robin was found on the ground in front of a residential unit in May 2014. After making sure

that Robin had no obvious injuries, we gave him a helping hand off the floor and helped him

to take flight again from a raised height, and that was all that he needed to fly away! At

times, adult bats may land on the floor by mistake or disorientation, and just need a little

help to get to a height to take off again.


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2.4 BUMBLEBEE, GOLD-RINGED CAT SNAKE

Many of our rescues involve relocating wild animals when they find themselves unwelcome

inside human residences. This often happens in homes next to forested areas and nature

reserves. In June 2014, Bumblebee- a striking gold-ringed cat snake (also known as a

mangrove snake) - was spotted just outside someone’s front door. We were soon on our

way to relocate this mildly venomous snake to his more natural riverine/mangrove habitat.

2.5 “THE BOTS” FAMILY OF DUCKS

In June 2014, we attended to one of our more unusual rescues, involving a family of ducks

who had become stranded and separated from each other on an industrial estate. Someone

working at a warehouse there alerted us to their plight, and we soon set about capturing

mum, dad and babies safely, giving them the nickname “the Bots”! Once we were sure that

everyone was accounted for, we relocated the family to a suitable habitat, and enjoyed

seeing them happily reunited and back home!


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2.6 PAL, RETICULATED PYTHON

Poor Pal was in a terrible state when we rescued him in July 2014. He had been squashed

between pallets at a construction site and suffered serious injuries, including huge

lacerations causing his organs to spill out of his body. It was doubtful whether Pal would

survive. But he proved to be a fighter and, following three surgical procedures and lots of

specialist care, Pal was released back to the wild in August 2014. We are delighted that his

story had a happy ending.

2.7 MARLEY, MALAYAN WATER MONITOR

Marley was a victim of a violent attack after he was discovered under a washing machine in

July 2014. He was hit repeatedly over the head in an attempt to kill him. Not surprisingly,

Marley suffered multiple fractures to the head. Some careful stitching work was needed to

hold his face together, and Marley then needed many weeks of intensive care. We’re

delighted to report that Marley made an excellent recovery and was successfully released

back to the wild in August 2014.

Marley’s injuries (left). On the road to recovery (right)!


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2.8 ABRACADABRA, PIGEON; CARMEN, MYNAH

On the night of Halloween, we were called on to rescue two birds from the horror of glue

traps. Both Abracadabra and Carmen were stuck on glue traps, unable to free themselves.

Glue traps are cruel death traps, causing a slow and painful death for any animal

unfortunate enough to get stuck on one. Thankfully, kind members of the public got help for

these birds on time. Following careful, painstaking removal of the glue, Abracadabra and

Carmen were released back to the wild!

2.9 VINE, RETICULATED PYTHON

Vine, a reticulated python, caused quite a stir when he was spotted lounging around in a

basement storage area at a busy marketplace in October 2014. We were not too surprised

to hear that Vine had made himself at home here, as such food and storage areas are like a

buffet for these snakes who mainly feed on rodents. Although the pythons may stay hidden

for some time, they may venture out into open areas and get spotted when following a

scent trail while on the hunt for a meal. In this case, the police contained the snake for us,

before we were called upon to find a suitable location to release Vine back to his wild

habitat.


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2.10 BENJI, MALAYAN WATER MONITOR

Sometimes in the course of our work, we encounter animals with terrible injuries and we

can’t be sure whether they will survive. In October 2014, we were called upon to rescue

Benji, a monitor lizard whose front right leg got trapped in a spring rat trap. The leg was

nearly completely severed and was rotting away. Unfortunately, amputation was the only

available course of action, followed by several weeks of care and recovery. We were

delighted that Benji was able to be released back into the wild in November 2014.

2.11 MR. PRESIDENT, MALAYAN BOX TURTLE

Mr. President was discovered with a fishing hook lodged inside his severely inflamed jaw in

November 2014. Following surgery to remove the hook, Mr. President was closely

monitored and received intensive care. Without appropriate measures, it is difficult to work

with this species because they can shut themselves in their shells, like a box! Two weeks

later, he was all good to go back to the wild! Our heartfelt thanks to the amazing team at

The Pet Doctors Veterinary Clinic, for giving professional help to Mr. President, and many

others like him.


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2.12 MIST, COMMON FRUIT BAT

Unlucky Mist found himself all tangled up in netting in January 2014, but he was lucky that

someone spotted him and called our Wildlife Rescue Hotline for help. Following a delicate

de-tangling process and a check for injuries, Mist was free to fly away, none the worse for

his ordeal.

2.13 WOUK, SCOPS OWL

Little Wouk, a scops owl nestling, was found on the ground at a condominium in January

2015. Thankfully, the parents and their nest were located in a branch high above. With the

help of a ladder and under the watchful eye of his parents (who never strayed far away), we

were able to place Wouk safely back in the nest.

2.14 RACKET, RAPTOR

Racket caused quite a commotion when he crashed into the glass windows of a rooftop

court in February 2015. Thanks to the concerned callers to the ACRES Wildlife Rescue

Hotline, Racket got help on time. Although he was not injured, Racket was stressed and


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thoroughly exhausted from his ordeal. With some fluids, rest and incubation, Racket made a

full recovery, and we were so glad to see him fly away the next morning!

2.15 SPIDERMAN, WHITE-VENTED MYNAH

In February 2015, the rescue team had the painstaking task of freeing Spiderman from a

messy tangle of bird, twine and branches. It took a while to carefully remove all the twine,

and then Spiderman was all set to fly away!

2.16 RAY, RETICULATED PYTHON

Unfortunately, snakes sometimes get hurt by humans, as a result of ignorance and fear. At a

construction site in March 2015, a heavy pallet was unloaded onto poor Ray to prevent him

from moving. Thankfully no real damage was done, and Ray was safely rescued and

relocated. We gave a detailed briefing to the site workers to prevent such incidents in the

future and to protect other snakes from harm, as our rescue work always goes hand in hand

with education.


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2.17 DUSK, BLACK BITTERN

Dusk was found on a balcony at a residence near Bedok Reservoir, and seemed a bit lost and

confused. The concerned residents called us for help. Thankfully Dusk was not injured, and

was able to fly away well. Birds like Dusk often crash into reflective surfaces such as glass

windows, and may get disoriented in enclosed spaces. We are frequently called upon to

rescue bitterns.

2.18 MINTY, MYNAH

With so many shopping malls in Singapore, it’s not

surprising that birds sometimes get trapped inside. In

March 2015, we were called upon the help Minty, who was

flying around the basement of Northpoint Shopping Mall

and couldn’t find a way out. We were able to successfully

rescue and release Minty.


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2.19 SCAR, ASIATIC SOFT-SHELLED TURTLE

In March 2015, the ACRES Wildlife Rescue Team responded to a Hotline call about an

injured turtle who appeared to be stranded at Changi Beach. Upon arrival, we realised that

the turtle was actually a freshwater soft-shelled turtle, most probably an abandoned illegal

pet who had been irresponsibly released into the sea- a totally unsuitable habitat for this

freshwater animal. Scar was found with ulcers and sores all over his body, which were

probably caused by the sea water.

Poor Scar probably entered the sea then scrambled back onto dry land after realising that it

wasn’t fresh water. He was very dehydrated and drank fresh water as soon as we made

available to him. As of the 31st of March 2015, Scar is recovering at the ACRES Wildlife

Rescue Centre. Scar has months of treatment ahead of him, and we have to ensure that he

does not suffer any infections during this time.

Due to the horrendous ulcers and sores on his body, we are having some difficulty

identifying his species but, so far, we strongly believe that he is an Asiatic soft shelled turtle,

native to Singapore.

However, he is a rather tame, which tells us that he was probably being illegally kept as a

pet. Once Scar is recovered, we will assess him and try to rehabilitate him so that he can be

released into the wild.


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3. FURTHER EXPANSION AND IMPROVEMENTS AT THE AWRC

In November 2013, we officially opened the Outdoor Sanctuary Area at the ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre (AWRC), and 30-40% of the rescued animals in our care got to experience an outdoor environment for the first time since their rescue. Our aim was to eventually move all of the animals that could be housed outdoors into outdoor enclosures. However, we were faced with many challenges along the way. A never-ending stream of newly rescued tortoises meant that, although tortoises continued to be transferred to outdoor enclosures, there simply wasn’t enough space for the new arrivals as well. But we weren’t to be beaten! Throughout 2014, we called upon our dedicated army of volunteers, who sweated through long days with us to enhance and upgrade the Outdoor Sanctuary Area, including constructing several new night dens to provide the tortoises with a safe and dry place at night. With the new night-dens ready, we were able to bring more tortoises outside to live in an outdoor environment. We did this in phases, to ensure that each group could slowly get used to the outdoors. It was with great joy that in the first week of 2015, we managed to transfer the last remaining tortoise, Hershey (a Hermann's tortoise), to his new outdoor home. As of December 2014, all of the tortoises that can be housed outside- 85% of the total number- were being housed outdoors (the remaining 15% are either new arrivals undergoing a mandatory period in quarantine or are undergoing treatment for illnesses). Many other animals, including turtles and snakes, were also moved from enclosures inside the Quarantine building to outdoor enclosures at the Main Sanctuary Area during this financial year (between the 1st of April 2014 and the 31st of March 2015). Having so many animals now housed in naturalistic outdoor enclosures has not only

improved the lives of the animals and enhanced our educational programmes (visitors on

educational tours can now see the rescued animals first-hand), but it’s also change the way

we provide animal care. Volunteers can now be more involved in providing the day-to-day

care, and get to see the animals in a more natural environment as they help to feed them,

provide enrichment and maintain the enclosures. And as more of the animal care work can

now be carried out by trained volunteers, full-time staff have more time to focus on other

important aspects of their work.


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Hershey exploring his new outdoor home!

Here is a timeline outlining are some of the improvements and developments at the AWRC

this financial year:

In May 2014, we were able to start upgrading certain areas at the outdoor Main Sanctuary

Area, thanks to generous funding from Deutsche Bank, which also sent volunteers to the

AWRC to put the money into action! The funding and the hard work of their volunteers

resulted in more shade nets being installed over the enclosures, many more plants being

planted in enclosures, and even a brand new tortoise enclosure! More night dens were also

added to the tortoise enclosures, and existing night dens were upgraded, allowing more

tortoises to move outside permanently.

Volunteers from Deutsche Bank building a tortoise enclosure.

In June 2014, we added more plants to the outdoor enclosures at the Main Sanctuary Area,

thanks to a generous donation of plants by Cheng Tai Nursery.


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More plants create more shady spots for the tortoises!

In June 2014, after our Outdoor Kitchen was damaged by heavy winds and rain, we made

the shelter structure more sturdy and secure.

A more rigid Outdoor Kitchen structure.

In July 2014, the Cuban sliders and Chinese stripe-necked turtles were moved from their

indoor tanks to a more spacious outdoor pond.


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In September 2014, we upgraded the giant Asian pond turtle enclosures, adding a new

filtration system and new barriers.

In September 2014, a new tortoise enclosure was completed. This large enclosure houses

several individuals, and allowed us to move many more tortoises from indoor enclosures to

the Main Sanctuary Area outdoors. This new enclosure features lots of natural shade

provided by plants.

In September 2014, we improved the enclosure for Peanut, a red-footed tortoise. Not only

did we increase the size of the enclosure, we also added a new concrete pond for him to

soak in, and added more vegetation.


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Volunteers constructing Peanut’s new pond.

Peanut at his wading pool.

Amber and Lola, African spurred tortoises, also had a new concrete pond added to their

enclosure, in October 2014.

Volunteers hard at working creating a pond for Amber and Lola.


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In December 2014, work on new outdoor enclosures for the softshell turtles was completed,

and all softshell turtles were moved out of their indoor enclosures to the outdoor Main

Sanctuary Area.

Chinese softshell turtle Joey explores his new home.

In December 2014, our new outdoor “Snake Shed” was complete, enabling us to move five

of the rescued snakes in our care into more naturalistic outdoor environments. These

outdoor acrylic tanks provide the snakes with a more spacious, natural environment in

which to live, and allow us to provide a greater variety of substrates.

The Snake Shed area is now included in the educational tour of the AWRC, enhancing our

awareness-raising efforts about the illegal exotic pet trade and which species are involved.


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Stubby the ball python exploring his new enclosure.

In December 2014, all work upgrading the outdoor tortoise enclosures was completed, and

Hershey, a Hermann's tortoise, was the final healthy tortoise to move outside into the

outdoor Main Sanctuary Area. As of December 2014, all healthy tortoises that could be

housed outdoors were being housed outdoors.

In January 2015, we also began upgrading the enclosures for the animals who at this time

are unable to move to outdoor enclosures.

In February 2015, we began renovating the indoor Quarantine area, where newly rescued

animals undergo their mandatory quarantine period before being moved to the outdoor

Main Sanctuary Area. The Quarantine building is also where sick and animals are treated

and recover. This upgrading work will continue into the next financial year.


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4. FEEDBACK FOR THE ACRES WILDLIFE RESCUE TEAM

5. ACRES JOINS PANGOLIN WORKING GROUP

This year, ACRES was invited to join the Pangolin Working Group, initiated by the IUCN

Specialist Group and attended the first meeting of the Pangolin Working Group. This is due

to our wildlife rescue efforts in Singapore and our role in the microchipping and release of

rescued pangolins.

6. PROMOTION OF HOLISTIC WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT SERVICES

In October 2014 we met the Civil Aviation Authority to discuss our Holistic Wildlife

Management Services, to aid with wildlife intrusions on the runways in a humane manner.

Hi Adeline & Joseph. Zara here. I would like to say my heartfelt thank u to the both of u for saving the

little Koel. It is such a courageous act for what you'd done earlier. Thank u once again.

- Ms. Zara, April 2014

My family and I would like to take this opportunity to thank you, Peishan, her colleague who

accompanied her to collect the mynah bird, and also the rest of the staff at ACRES who go to great

lengths to help a little mynah bird find his freedom. THANK YOU!

- Ensom Rom (Ms), May 2014

I had called in today for rescue of this small owl that our workers found injured stuck with glue.

I am very pleased with you people from the moment I called the hotline, friendly tone on assisting, I

would say you people did a very great job in speedy response and I feel you people have great heart in

rescuing the wildlife.

I really appreciate your association in doing what you are doing now. Keep on the spirit and great job!

- Caller to ACRES Wildlife Rescue Hotline, August 2014


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7. MACAQUE PROTECTION AND RESCUE

Macaques in Singapore today face all sorts of threats and dangers, due to habitat loss and a

lack of public awareness about how to live in harmony with these smart and curious

monkeys. Sadly, Singapore’s native long-tailed macaques are often regarded as “nuisance”

animals, and every year hundreds are culled by the authorities.

We’ve been working to help Singapore’s macaques in various ways over the years, and in

October 2014 we officially launched Singapore’s first ever Macaque Rescue Team. The Team

is on call seven days a week to go to the aid of any macaques in need in Singapore. The

Team also plays a vital role in making Singapore a place where macaques and people live

side by side, through various community programmes which promote co-existence of wild

animals and people.

Between the 1st of April 2014 and the 31st of March 2015, we responded to 211 calls about

macaques. Some of these were reports of injured macaques that we subsequently

investigated. Others involved us giving advice or sharing information, and included calls

about macaque sightings and encounters, members of the public feeding macaques, home

intrusions by macaques, macaques taking fruit from fruit trees in people’s gardens, and

construction work disrupting and splitting up macaque troops. In cases where it was

appropriate to take action, for example by making a site visit and meeting with people, we

did so. In other cases, we offered advice over the phone.


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7.1 MACAQUE RESCUE STORIES

Here are some of the macaques we’ve had the pleasure of helping this year.

As well as these rescues, there have been some other injured macaque cases which we have

investigated and decided not to physically intervene with, but instead kept an eye on the

macaque in question. This is because, in the case of less serious injuries, it is always best to

leave the macaques with their troops, in the wild, and not subject them to the stress of

capture, separation from the troop, and being handled by humans. In most cases, macaques

will recover from non-life-threatening injuries on their own.

7.1.1 SUZZIE: VICTIM OF AN ILLEGAL SNARE (UPDATE)

In January 2014, the Macaque Rescue Team received a call about a macaque stuck on a tree

at Sembawang Park and, after rushing to the scene, found a young female macaque hanging

helplessly from a tree with her left hand caught in a snare.

We managed to climb a ladder up into the tree and cut the snare from the macaque’s wrist,

before carrying her down to be reunited with the rest of her troop. However, we noticed

that the macaque couldn’t even move or stand upon release, and her troop gradually

moved off without her. That was when we concluded that she must have badly injured her

hand/wrist while struggling to free herself and needed veterinary care.

“Suzzie” was taken to the Animal Recovery Veterinary Referral Centre (ARVRC) for specialist

veterinary care under the guidance of Dr Lye, and diagnosed with a broken wrist and

severely swollen fingers. Suzzie underwent two surgical procedures on her badly damaged

wrist and hand.

We’re delighted to report that Suzzie was successfully released back into the wild on the 2nd

of May 2015 and was seen reunited with her troop on the same day.

A

AAllSuzzie, all ready to go back to the wild!


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Suzzie, back in the trees, and reunited with her troop.

7.1.2 KING KONG: ESCAPED ILLEGAL PET (UPDATE)

In January 2014, we were alerted to a sub-adult male long-tailed macaque who had a chain

tied around his neck, living in the area around Tagore Lane/Tagore Industrial Ave. We

believe he was being illegally kept as a pet, and had managed to escape. The danger was as

King Kong grew bigger, the chain would cut into his neck, causing extreme pain and eventual

death, so it was vital that he was caught and the chain removed.

Finally, in April 2015, King Kong was successfully captured, the chain was cut from his neck,

and he was released back into the wild!

ACRES staff carefully remove King Kong’s chain.


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King Kong, back in the trees!

7.1.3 BABY MACAQUE IN RAT TRAP

In September 2014, we were called upon to rescue a baby macaque who was caught in a rat

trap at Springdale Condominium. The troop had gathered around the trap, making the

rescue operation all the more tricky. However, we managed to release the baby macaque

and reunite him/her with the rest of the troop. We advised the condominium management

and security guards to place the trap in a different area where it was less likely to pose a

threat to macaques and other wild animals.

7.1.4 BIKE AND ROSSA

Bike, a young male long-tailed macaque, was rescued on the 6th of February 2015 at Bukit

Timah Nature Reserve (Hindhede Bike Trail). He had been hit by a mountain bike. As a

result, he suffered lacerations to his head, and a puncture wound on his nose which

extended through to his upper lip. Due to the significant impact from the collision, he also

had severe head trauma. His movements were uncoordinated, and for a while it was

unknown whether he would suffer temporary or permanent disability. The vets and nurses

at Animal Recovery and Veterinary Referral Centre (ARVC) provided him with the best

veterinary care possible.


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When a group of construction workers spotted Rossa on their first day back at work after Chinese New Year in February 2015, she was lying in the middle of a construction site at Rifle Range Road and obviously in a bad way. So they called the ACRES Wildlife Rescue Hotline.

Rossa was covered with sand, severely dehydrated and hypoglycaemic. Inflammation on her forehead indicated that she had probably fallen from a great height and hit her head. Her troop was nowhere in sight.

Rossa was taken to recover from her temporary head trauma at the Animal Recovery and Veterinary Referral Centre (ARVC), under the excellent care of the staff there. As she was only approximately one year old and highly dependent on her troop, it was crucial that she received all the necessary supplements to boost her immunity prior to her release back into the wild. It was also important that she did not become imprinted onto her human caregivers, so we took the necessary measures to ensure that this didn’t happen.

Once they were both well enough, Bike and Rossa were introduced to each other, to aid

with their recovery and rehabilitation process and to allow them to be released back to the

wild together. Although we didn’t know Rossa’s origin, we did know the identity of Bike’s

family troop, so we decided to reintroduce both macaques to Bike’s troop.

From perfect strangers, Bike and Rossa appeared to become good friends during their

rehabilitation process together! As macaques are highly social animals, the integration was

successful in minimising their stress levels during the rehabilitation period. Both macaques

were been observed grooming each other and seeking companionship.


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We thank Nparks for their support and partnership for the selection of a suitable site for

release. Both macaques were microchipped prior to release, to allow proper monitoring

post-release.

On the 20th of March 2015, Bike and Rossa were released in the Rifle Range Road area, and

were soon integrated with Bike’s original troop.

Bike and Rossa leap back into the wild!

7.1.5 BABY MACAQUE TRAPPED IN NETTING

In February 2015, a baby macaque was found trapped in construction netting near the

Visitor Centre at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. We were soon on the scene to free the

macaque, while carefully keeping the other macaques at a safe distance. The baby macaque

was soon free and able to rejoin his/her troop.


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7.2 PROTECTING MACAQUES FROM VEHICLE COLLISIONS

This year, we’ve been alerted to a number of cases of macaques being killed by vehicles on

the roads and have investigated with such cases, identifying problems areas, and identifying

the individuals involved. We’ve also been assisting with the logistical operations of moving

the bodies to keep vehicles safely moving on the roads, as macaques will often gather

around the bodies of dead macaques.

To address the issue further, together with some students at the National University of

Singapore, we’ve written a proposal advocating for lower speed limits for vehicles on roads

near nature reserves, parks and other wildlife hotspots. We’re also suggesting other

measures to reduce the numbers of accidents involving vehicles and wild animals, such as

installing signboards at hotspot areas making drivers aware of wildlife and the need to slow

down.

7.3 ENGAGING THE COMMUNITY IN MACAQUE PROTECTION: RESOLVING CONFLICTS,

INCREASING PUBLIC AWARENESS, AND ENGAGING VOLUNTEERS

As well as rescuing individual macaques, the Macaque Rescue Team spends a great deal of

time working with the community on resolving human-macaque conflict issues. We

investigate reports of “problem” macaques such as those showing aggression, and

investigate reports of people behaving inappropriately around macaques, for example

feeding them illegally.

Sometimes, macaques are deemed as “problem” animals, for example because they enter

private property, snatch food or, more rarely, attack people. Usually, the cause of such

problematic behaviour is because of humans behaving inappropriately: for example,

macaques have been given food by members of public, or people living in areas inhabited by

macaques have not taken measures to protect their property. Also, the clearing of land for

new developments has led to many macaques being displaced and coming into closer


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contact with humans. We also frequently receive reports of lone individuals “hanging

around” human habitations. These are usually transient individuals trying to find a new

troop to join, and will soon move on and cause no harm.

Whenever there is a report of a human-macaque issue, we will look into it and respond with

the appropriate course of action. Most importantly, we seek to propose and implement

long-term solutions to resolving human-macaque conflicts.

This year, some of the activities we have undertaken to promote the peaceful co-existence

of macaques and people in Singapore include:

We launched the Monkey Guards Volunteer Team. The Monkey Guards will be

involved in hands-on work, herding macaques away from residential areas and

discouraging them from coming close, as well as participating in observational

studies of macaques.

In April 2014, we met with the management of Springvale Condominium, located

near Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, to discuss a possible pilot programme to address

macaque issues experienced by the residents. The pilot programme includes

exploring the use of Monkey Guards and electric fences to address the human-

macaque conflict issues. In August, we presented the proposal at the AGM of

Springvale Condominium. Although the proposal received some support, the

majority were not in favour of implementing the pilot programme at this time.

However, we did conduct a trial of the use of “Monkey Guards” to herd away

macaques from the condominium, and this proved successful. The knowledge gained

from trial will be useful as we continue to explore effective ways of resolving human-

macaque conflicts.

A volunteer “Monkey Guard” in action, herding macaques away from Springdale

Condominium.


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In April 2014, we attended a meeting with staff of Bukit Timah Community Centre to

discuss potential, positive ways that we can collaborate to address human-macaque

issues and involve the community.

In April 2014, we attended a meeting of Singapore’s Macaque Working Group,

together with representatives from the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA),

the National Parks Board (Nparks), Wildlife Reserves Singapore (WRS), Nature

Society (Singapore) (NSS) and the Ministry of National Development (MND). We

brought up for discussion the ongoing GPS distribution maps and haplotype studies,

and also proposed a plan to explore using Monkey Guards and scientific research to

address human-macaque issues, as an alternative to culling.

In August 2014, ACRES was involved in the formation and launch of the Bukit Timah

Wildlife Network: a partnership between grassroots and NGOs, endorsed by Ms Sim

Ann, Minister of State for Education and Communications and Information, and one

of the MPs for Holland-Bukit Timah GRC. Under the new network, led by the Bukit

Timah Community Club Youth Executive Committee, about 40 residents, students

and others will spend weekend mornings at the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

approaching and educating visitors to not feed macaques and how to behave around

them. ACRES will be involved with training volunteers and also preparing an

educational video. The first group of the volunteer “Wildlife Ambassadors”

completed their training in October 2014. In November 2014, ACRES trained the

second batch of volunteers.

In September 2014, we successfully employed the “monkey herding” method to

move a troop of macaques away from Summer Hill condominium, after we received

reports of the macaques entering the premises. After two such herding operations

were conducted, it appeared that the macaques had been successfully deterred from

re-entering the property.

In October 2014, we provided advice to and printed advisory materials for the

management and residents of Dairy Farm Estates regarding a lone macaque

occasionally visiting the premises.

Russell, a resident in the Old Upper Thomson / Lower Peirce Reservoir Park area,

agreed for ACRES to use his house as a site for case study, to document how he co-

exists with the macaques and the measures he has adopted to discourage macaques

from entering his property e.g. regarding garbage disposal. A video featuring Russell

sharing how he reaches co-existence with the macaques was aired on the ACRES YouTube

channel in March 2015.

A transient young male macaque was spotted in the Punggol Central area in

December 2015. Advisory materials were distributed to shops and condominiums in

the area, so that residents were made aware of what action to take to prevent the

macaque becoming a nuisance (e.g. to ensure the macaque could not access food)

and what to do should the macaque become a problem. The macaque eventually

moved away without causing any issues.


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On the 3rd of February 2015, ACRES Campaigns Executive, Sabrina Jabbar, gave a

presentation at the Jane Goodall Primate Session on “Monkey Guards: An alternative to co-

existing with Macaques.”

8. WILDLIFE RESCUE: CONFERENCES/TRAINING ATTENDED

In October 2014, Wildlife Rescue Officer Syabrina Phang attended a training session about

Singapore’s marine animals, organised by NUS. A similar session was held in March 2015

and attended by Wildlife Rescue Officer Joseph Lin. We thank NUS for the opportunity to

attend these useful training sessions.


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In March 2015, we attended the Pangolins Rise Symposium at NTU, organised by Earthlink

NTU. Anbarasi Boopal, Deputy Chief Executive of ACRES, gave a presentation about our

rescue work involving pangolins, and how we are raising public awareness about how to

help and conserve Singapore’s Sunda pangolins.


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TACKLING THE WILDLIFE TRADE

Creatures of all shapes and sizes and from all corners of the globe can find themselves

victims of the illegal wildlife trade. This illicit trade is wiping out the world’s wild animals and

subjecting them to unimaginable horrors: Being snatched from the wild then cruelly

crammed into suitcases and boxes and smuggled around the world to be sold as exotic

‘pets’, or being snared, shot and butchered for their body parts to be made into medicines,

jewellery or ornaments. ACRES is working hard to put an end to the illegal wildlife trade.

ACRES is also concerned with legalised forms of wildlife trade, such as the sharks fin

industry, which too are threatening wild populations and involve much suffering.

Through our ongoing educational talks and roadshows, we’ve continued raising public

awareness about the wildlife trade and empowering members of the public to join the fight

to end the exploitation of wild animals.

1. ILLEGAL EXOTIC PET TRADE

Sadly, the online illegal trading of wild animals as pets is flourishing. In Singapore, it is

against the law to keep/sell or advertise for sale most species of wild animal. However,

many individuals continue to flout the laws and illegally advertise wild animals for sale.

This year, we have continued to investigate tip-offs concerning individuals illegally

advertising wild animals for sale online.

1.1 INVESTIGATION INTO THE ILLEGAL ONLINE TRADE IN EXOTIC PETS

We conducted an investigation into the online illegal trade in wild animals, monitoring 15

websites on which people can advertise items for sale. Six of these sites were found to

contain advertisements advertising prohibited animals for sale. The investigation also

revealed a further six websites carrying advertisements for prohibited wild animals. Some of

the prohibited animals advertised for sale were monkeys (various species), tortoises

(various species), turtles (various species), pythons (various species), green iguanas,

hedgehogs, a scops owl, a scorpion, a chameleon, and other species of lizard.

We wrote a report with details of our findings and submitted it to the Agri-Food and

Veterinary Authority (AVA).


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1.2 ILLEGAL POSSESSION OF / CRUELTY TO MARMOSET

On the 5th of September 2014, the ACRES Wildlife Rescue Team rescued a female black

tufted marmoset (Callithrix penicillata) who was found lying on a grass patch at 47 Marine

Crescent. Black tufted marmosets are endemic to Brazil and it is illegal to keep them as pets

in Singapore.

The marmoset was severely emaciated, and close veterinary examination by the vets at Singapore Zoo revealed that the animal was suffering from severe metabolic bone disease. Sadly, the marmoset had to be humanely euthanised.

ACRES launched an appeal on social media asking members of the public to come forward with any information leading to the successful prosecution of the individual who had illegally kept this marmoset as a pet. This case was covered by the local media, helping to raise awareness about the illegal exotic pet trade in Singapore.

2. TACKLING WILDLIFE SMUGGLING AT BORDER POINTS

In July 2014, we met with representatives from Certis CISCO Security Pte Ltd - the company

in charge of border security at Changi Airport - to propose utilising wildlife sniffer dogs at

baggage collection points at Singapore Changi Airport. This is something that ACRES has

been advocating for and researching for some time.


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3. MOVING TOWARDS AN END TO THE SHARKS’ FIN TRADE

This year, ACRES has continued to support the “Finished With Fins” campaign

(www.FinishedWithFins.org) to end the consumption of sharks fin soup.

On the 6th of November, we attended a press conference at which Martin Rinck, President

of Hilton Worldwide’s Asia Pacific region, announced the Hilton Group's adoption of the

“Finished With Fins” campaign, unveiled his campaign portrait and accepted his role of

"Corporate Ambassador". Major companies in Singapore were invited to attend the press

conference, to sign the corporate pledge.

4. NEW DEDICATED ANIMAL CRIME INVESTIGATION UNIT LAUNCHED

On the 7th of March 2015, ACRES launched a new dedicated Animal Crime Investigation Unit

in Singapore.

The Unit, operated by ACRES, will investigate animal cruelty and wildlife crime in Singapore,

collate the necessary evidence, and prepare the case brief for prosecution by the Agri-Food

and Veterinary Authority in Court. The Unit will also go undercover to detect animal crime

and work with authorities on conducting sting operations to nab offenders.

Why the need for such a unit? One of the challenges that the AVA has faced is the lack of or

insufficient evidence in some cases of alleged animal cruelty or abuse or wildlife crime. We

want to help gather the evidence and work with the AVA to bring more offenders to task

and ensure that justice is served.

The Unit comprises four full-time staff members who have qualifications in law, psychology,

environmental management, life sciences, criminal justice, criminal investigation, forensic

psychology and security management.

The Animal Crime Investigation Unit was formed following feedback received at the Chong

Pang Public Forum on Animal Protection Policies over the past five years. Participants have


47

consistently called for a higher rate of prosecution in cases of animal cruelty and/or wildlife

crime.

The Animal Welfare Legislation Review Committee has also similarly stated the need for

greater penalties and actions against wrongdoers. It stated in its report that “Statistics

showed that the proportion of cases having prosecution action taken compared to the

overall number of animal cruelty complaints was low. Key factors leading to this included

challenges in gathering evidence and getting witnesses to testify.”

55.. PPAARRTTNNEERRSSHHIIPP WWIITTHH AARRRREESSTT

The ARREST (Asia’s Regional Response to Endangered Species Trafficking) Programme is a

consortium of partners working together to fight trafficking in illegal wildlife in Asia, and

ACRES is one of the partners. In July, we attended an ARREST meeting in Bangkok, to discuss

the workplan for the next couple of years. We continue to work alongside our ARREST

partners to collaborate on efforts to end the illegal wildlife trade in Asia.


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HHUUMMAANNEE EEDDUUCCAATTIIOONN

Animal cruelty persists largely because of lack of awareness: lack of awareness that animals

have feelings similar to our own; lack of awareness that many things that humans do to

animals cause them to suffer; and lack of awareness that each one of us can help end

animal cruelty. Most people don’t intend to hurt animals.

We believe that education is the key to ending animal cruelty. ACRES reaches out to all

sectors of society through our various Humane Education programmes, from kindergarten

children to adults. We work closely with schools and community groups in order to ensure

that today’s children grow up with empathy, compassion and respect for all life, and are

inspired to change their world for the better.

The ACRES HEAL Programme (Humane Education for All Life) is a Humane Education

programme specifically designed for primary schools and kindergartens. The HEAL

Programme reaches out to hundreds of children every year, encouraging empathy to all

creatures, great and small. Through engaging presentations and activities, ACRES promotes

caring behaviour towards animals and respect for the environment, creating a kinder and

more gracious Singapore. We encourage children to think about and explore their own place

in the natural world.

This year, our various Humane Education Programmes have reached out to over 21,500

people.


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From the 1st of April 2014 to the 31st of March 2015, ACRES held 117 educational talks/

programmes and/or roadshows throughout Singapore and at the Lee Foundation Education

Centre at the ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre. Of these, 93 talks/education

programmes/roadshows were at/for schools/kindergartens/universities/other

organisations, and 24 were in public areas or for companies.

1. EDUCATION PROGRAMMES FOR EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

This year, our education programmes have reached out to students from a total of 62

different schools/ universities/ kindergartens as listed below:

1. Admiralty Primary School

2. Anglo Chinese Primary School

3. Anderson Junior College

4. Bartley Secondary School

5. Bukit Panjang Primary School

6. Chatsworth International School

7. Chatsworth International School - East Campus

8. Chatsworth Kindergarten

9. Chatsworth Piccadilly

10. Children Primaryland Pte. Ltd. Student Care

11. Commonwealth Secondary School

12. Dover Court International School

13. Educa Kindergarten

14. Frontier Primary School

15. German European School Singapore

16. German High School


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17. Grace Orchard School

18. Hampton Pre-School

19. Hearty Care Centre

20. ISS international School

21. ITE College East

22. Juying Primary School

23. Life Student Care Centre

24. Little Oaks Montessori Kindergarten

25. Little Skool House International

26. Marsiling Primary School

27. National Institute of Education (NIE)

28. NPS International School

29. Nanyang Technological University (NTU)

30. National University of Singapore (NUS)

31. Odyssey The Global Preschool

32. Overseas Family School

33. Pat's Schoolhouse Lakeside

34. Pat’s Schoolhouse Serangoon

35. Pioneer Junior College

36. Planet Montessori

37. PPIS Child Development Centre

38. Punggol Primary School

39. Raffles Girls’ School

40. Raffles Institution

41. Republic Polytechnic

42. River Valley High School

43. Sembawang Primary School

44. Shuqun Primary School

45. Singapore Institute of Technology

46. St Joseph's Institution International

47. Singapore American School

48. Singapore Polytechnic

49. Skylace Language School

50. Stamford American School

51. St Hilda’s Secondary School

52. St Joseph’s Institution International Elementary School

53. Swallows and Amazons Kindergarten

54. Swiss Cottage Secondary School

55. Tanglin Trust School

56. United World College of South East Asia (UWCSEA) Dover

57. United World College of South East Asia (UWCSEA) East Campus


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58. Victoria School

59. Woodlands Ring Primary School

60. Xinmin Secondary School

61. Yangzheng Primary School

62. Zhonghua Secondary School

Here are some of the highlights of our educational programmes:

On the 24th of October 2014, ACRES gave a talk on marine animal protection to a group of

pre-schoolers at Little Skool House. The children at this school were involved in a carnival

held on the school grounds, where they were selling handmade turtle-themed craft items to

parents and school staff. These youngsters really made a difference for the animals at such a

young age! ACRES is always delighted to meet dedicated and passionate children and adults

who believe that animals should be protected.

The children at Little Skool House sold their beautiful artwork to help animals.

HEAL presentation at Chatsworth International School, East Campus, May 2014.


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Getting the students involved! HEAL programme at ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre for Educa

Kindergarten, May 2014.

HEAL presentation at Bukit Panjang Primary School, May 2014.

Students from Singapore Polytechnic on an educational tour of the ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre, July

2014.


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Little ones at Pat’s Schoolhouse Serangoon learning respect for all animals through the HEAL

programme, July 2014.

Students from International School Singapore learning all about animal as sentient beings on a visit

to the ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre, October 2014.

On 10 November 2014, ACRES set up our educational roadshow at a science fair held at

Woodlands Ring Primary School. A number of schools were invited, enabling us to reach out

to over 2000 students in a day! Many students were intrigued by our exhibits on the illegal

wildlife trade at our roadshow booth. Some bombarded us with question after question,

eager to know more about the plight of the animal victims of the wildlife trade, as well as

how they can help these animals.


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Roadshow about the illegal wildlife trade at Woodlands Ring Primary School, November 2014.

On the 6th of January 2015, the ACRES Education Team guided the Primary 3 students at

Frontier Primary School to create a brochure about animal protection, to be distributed to

the entire school. What a fantastic way to raise awareness! This mass activity was

conducted after we gave an assembly presentation about the emotional lives of animals.

The next day, the awareness-raising continued with us setting up our educational roadshow

exhibits on the illegal exotic pet trade at the school’s animal-themed ‘Pet Jamboree’ event.

Frontier Primary School students listened to a presentation by ACRES about animals as sentient

beings, then completed their own artwork on some of the issues covered.


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Students at Frontier Primary School learning about the illegal exotic pet trade through our roadshow

exhibits, January 2015.

On the 11th of February 2015, ACRES visited Swallows and Amazons Kindergarten for a

sharing session about responsible pet ownership and the emotions of animals. The pre-

schoolers had an interaction session with Penni, a dog rescued from a puppy mill who is the

star of our education programmes for young children! The children enjoyed their intimate

moment with Penni as much as we enjoyed teaching them to care for animals. The school,

along with the parents of these children, generously raised funds for ACRES.

The children at Swallows and Amazons Kindergarten meet Penni!


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AWRC Educational Tour for Singapore American School students, February 2015.

2. EDUCATION PROGRAMMES FOR COMPANIES/OTHER ORGANISATIONS.

ACRES welcomes the opportunity to give talks to and/or hold our educational roadshows for

companies and other organisations.

This year, ACRES was invited to give talks to staff of and/or hold our educational roadshow for/at the

following companies and organisations:

Bodhi Meditation

BridgeAble

Chinese Development Assistance Council

IHS Global Pte Ltd.

The Green Room

The Write Place

Senja-Cashew Community Centre

Singapore Boys’ Home

Singapore Girls’ Home

SPH Charity Carnival

Xu Bo Art and Culture Exchange

Yew Tee Zone 5 Residents’ Committee


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Our guests from BridgeAble enjoyed their educational visit to the AWRC.

3. PUBLIC EDUCATION PROGRAMMES

ACRES talks and roadshows have continued to take place island-wide in Singapore this year,

raising awareness on animal protection issues in numerous venues. This year, we have

given talks and/or held our educational roadshows at the following public venues in

Singapore:

Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre (ADEX Roadshow)

Ang Mo Kio National Library

Bishan Community Centre (Dash of Kindness Roadshow)

Chong Pang Community Club (Chong Pang Public Forum on Animal Protection

Policies)

Kranji Countryside Association Farmers' Market

Kranji Farmers’ Market

Vivo City (NParks Festival of Biodiversity 2014)


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Marina Bay Sands (Nexus Global Youth Summit)

Shaw Theatre at Scotts (Blackfish Screening Roadshow)

Yishun National Library

Tampines One (Happy Pet’s Day)

Youth Park (ACRES End Animal Cruelty Carnival)

ACRES volunteers raise awareness about the plight of captive dolphins at the Asia Dive Expo

(ADEX) 2015, Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre. We received strong support for

our message that dolphins belong in the wild.

4. THE SILENT FOUNDATION GRANT

The Silent Foundation has continued to generously fund our educational programmes this

year. Thank you to Mr. Teng and all at the Silent Foundation for their ongoing support.


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CCOOMMMMUUNNIITTYY OOUUTTRREEAACCHH

ACRES strives to inspire and empower everyone, from young to old, from all walks of life, to

play an active role in the animal protection movement and ending animal cruelty, creating a

more caring and compassionate society.

Our Community Outreach Programmes are at the heart of all we do and include providing

numerous rewarding volunteer opportunities, involving local schools and companies in our

work, and organising public events.

As well as involving the community in our own events, we are also delighted to join in with

and support the events and initiatives organised by others.

1. ACRES COMMUNITY OUTREACH EVENTS

1.1 GALA DINNER 2014: TOWARDS A BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR THE ANIMALS!

Our annual Gala Dinner birthday celebration- our biggest single fundraiser of the year- was

held at the Furama Riverfront Hotel on the 24th of May, 2014. Thanks to the support of our

generous sponsors, supporters and everyone who bought a ticket, and those who bid for

auction items, we raised an amazing $77,434 for our animal protection programmes and our

efforts to end animal cruelty, as we celebrated our 13th birthday!

Special thanks go to the following companies and individuals who supported the ACRES Gala

Dinner 2014:


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Gold Sponsor: The Silent Foundation.

Silver Sponsor: Battery Asia (S) Pte Ltd

Bronze Sponsor: Bodhi Meditation

Event Partners: EnMassive, J & D Burleigh Pte Ltd, BZB’s Pub, Furama City Centre, Nongsa

Resorts, Philips, Asian Geographic, Asian Geographic The Big Read, Klapsons The Boutique

Hotel, Bubbly Petz, Bollywood Veggies, InessaK.com, Light On Hypnosis, The Lone Crow,

Singapore Press Holdings, The Body Shop, Zouk and Running Media.

Thanks also go to everyone who kindly donated items for the auction, and to The Trisno Trio

and Roze Kasmani, who provided the music for the evening. A big thank you also goes to our

fantastic volunteers, who pulled out all the stops to make the evening a night to remember

for everyone.

1.2 END ANIMAL CRUELTY CARNIVAL

ACRES held an “End Animal Cruelty Carnival” at Youth Park, on the 27th of July 2015. The

aim was to raise awareness about how everyone can make choices in their everyday lives

that benefit animals, such as choosing products that don’t involve animal cruelty in their

production, in a thought-provoking and fun way. We set up a “cruelty-free supermarket”

exhibit and had a “Mega Jenga” game, to encourage members of the public to join in and

learn more. We also made sure there were plenty of animal-themed activities to keep little

ones entertained and informed! The event was also an opportunity to raise funds for our

various programmes to end animal cruelty.

The carnival received media coverage from The Straits Times and Today, spreading

awareness further still.


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Volunteers ensured there were plenty of fun animal-themed activities for children!

1.3 ACRES FLAG DAY 2014

Our annual Flag Day took place on the 17th of August and, as always, our dedicated

volunteers didn’t let the animals down, raising nearly $10,000 for our efforts to end animal

cruelty!

1.4 END ANIMAL CRUELTY CHARITY CAR WASH

The 14th of December 2014 was a momentous day for ACRES as we held our first ever ‘End

Animal Cruelty’ Charity Car Wash! We wanted to raise awareness about ending animal

cruelty, as well as funds for all our programmes that aim to do just that. The support we

received was overwhelming! Scores of enthusiastic volunteers joined in, rolled up their

sleeves, and got their hands dirty washing cars. And so many people in their vehicles - from

family cars to supercars and even Harley Davidson motorbikes! - dropped by to get their

vehicles washed and make their donation for the animals! We raised nearly $10,000 from

the car wash, and made lots of new friends at the same time!


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1.5 4th CHONG PANG PUBLIC FORUM ON ANIMAL PROTECTION POLICIES

The 4th Chong Pang Public Forum on Animal Protection Policies was held on Saturday the

7th of March 2015, and once again it showed that people in Singapore care passionately

about animal protection and ending animal cruelty. Over two hundred people attended the

Forum, to provide constructive feedback and suggestions on improvements to animal

protection policies in Singapore.

This annual event is a fantastic opportunity for members of the public to speak up and air

their views on animal protection issues. We could also share the positive progress for

animals that occurred in 2014 as a direct result of previous forums, as well as the exciting

new initiatives lined up for 2015.

We would like to thank Minister K. Shanmugam (Minister for Foreign Affairs, Minister for

Law, and MP for Nee Soon GRC) and Grassroots Leader Mr. Henry Kwek for answering

questions and leading the discussions.

We’d also like to thank the following organisations for participating (in alphabetical order):

Agency for Animal Welfare Singapore, Animal Lovers League, Agri-Food and Veterinary

Authority (AVA), Cat Welfare Society, Causes for Animals, Humane Society Singapore,

Nature Society of Singapore, National Parks Board (NParks), SPCA Singapore, Three Legs

Good, and Vegetarian Society (Singapore).

Our passionate volunteers, as always, made everything run smoothly- thank you! Most of

all, a big THANK YOU to everyone who attended and spoke up for the animals.

Mr. K. Shanmugam and Mr. Henry Quek, together with ACRES Chief Executive, Louis Ng,

responded to questions and comments from the audience.


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2. PARTICIPATION IN COMMUNITY EVENTS

We’ve enjoyed participating in numerous community events this year, and have appreciated

the opportunity to raise awareness on animal protection issues. Here are the events we

took part in between the 1st of April 2014 and the 31st of March 2015:

Paws Up 2014 Carnival (March 2014)

ADEX Roadshow. MBS Expo Hall. (April 2014)

Dash of Kindness Roadshow. Bishan Community Centre (August 2014)

NParks Festival of Biodiversity (July 2014)

Nexus Global Youth Summit (July 2014)

Happy Pet’s Day @ Tampines One (September 2014)

ST Marine Green Carnival (September 2014)

ACRES volunteers chatting with members of the public about Singapore’s native wild animals

and ACRES work to protect them at the Festival of Biodiversity, July 2014.

3. PARTICIPATION IN SCHOOL AND UNIVERSITY EVENTS

Throughout this year, ACRES has participated in a number of events at schools and

universities, as listed below:

15th Elementz Science Research Competition and Exhibition. Anglo-Junior College.

(April 2014)

PJC Green Bazaar. Pioneer Junior College. (May 2014)

Service-learning Roadshow, St Hilda’s Secondary School (March 2015)

Voluntary Welfare Organisation (VWO) Day. Pioneer Junior College. (April 2014)

Youth Got Heart 2014 Roadshow. Raffles Institution. (April 2014).


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4. COMMUNITY OUTREACH PROJECTS

4.1 SCHOOL PROJECTS

Several students have approached ACRES for advice and support for their school projects on

animal protection issues this year. We’re always delighted to support such projects, and

have been impressed by the quality of the projects and the enthusiasm of the students.

This year we have assisted 29 groups of students on their animal protection projects on a

range of topics including animal rights, 50 years of animal rights, animal testing, the animal

fur and skin industry, pet mills, animals in entertainment, animals in captivity, captive

dolphins in Singapore, the illegal exotic pet trade, endangered species and poaching,

macaques, marine life protection, advocacy work, NGOs in Singapore, non-profit

organisation development, creating awareness for a non-profit organisation, media

engagement and promoting local charities.

Students from UWCSEA East Campus researching their project on creating awareness for

non-profit organisations, at the ACRES Lee Foundation Education Centre.

Students from Raffles Girls’ School (Secondary) visit ACRES HQ to learn all about animal

testing.


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Students from Raffles Institution take a tour of the AWRC to learn all about running an NGO in

Singapore.

4.3 SERVICE LEARNING / VALUES IN ACTION PROJECTS

This year, we’ve continued to collaborate with school students on their student learning

projects.

We are currently working with, or have worked with, students from the following schools on

their Service Learning / Values in Action projects:

Anderson Secondary School

Anglo-Chinese Junior College

Anglo-Chinese School (Independent)

Bishan Park Secondary School

Bukit Panjang Government High School

Hua Yi Secondary School

Hwa Chong Institution,

Methodist Girls' School.

Nanyang Girls’ High School

National Junior College

Ngee Ann Polytechnic

NAFA

Raffles Institution

Regent Secondary School

Sembawang Secondary School

Singapore Chinese Girls' School

Yuan Ching Secondary School


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4.4 YOUTH FOR CAUSES

This year we’re once again delighted to be working with youths as part of the Citi-YMCA

Youth for Causes programme (www.youthforcauses.com). The “Paws For Cause” group was

selected to raise funds for ACRES, and it’s been a pleasure working with them. This

passionate team organised several street sales between April and September 2014, raising

an impressive $2968.10 for ACRES.

5. VOLUNTEER PROGRAMMES

We simply couldn’t do what we do without the help and support of our dedicated

volunteers. From the 1st of April 2014 to the 31st of March 2015, our dedicated volunteers

clocked up an impressive 16,126.5 volunteer hours between them. Between the 1st of April

2014 to the 31st of March 2015, ACRES recruited 616 new volunteers.

We would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the contribution made by each and

every one of our volunteers and to thank them for their hard work and dedication to the

animals and our mission to end animal cruelty.


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5.1 LAUNCH OF NEW VOLUNTEER TEAMS

A new year saw the launch of a revamped volunteer programme at ACRES in early 2015,

with the following Volunteer Teams established to enable everyone to get involved in some

way with helping animals and ending animal cruelty. We’ve been busy recruting volunteers

for all of the teams.

Team Wildlife Guardians: Wildlife Guardians provide daily care for rescued and injured wild

animals. Wildlife Guardian are at the forefront of our animal care efforts, assisting with

providing critical care to animals who have just arrived at our wildlife rescue centre, and to

those needing ongoing treatment.

Team Wildlife Sanctuary: The rescued animals at the ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre are all

victims of the illegal exotic pet trade and have suffered greatly. At our outdoor Main

Sanctuary Area they enjoy a second chance at life, in naturalistic open enclosures. But it

takes a lot more than a nice home to keep them happy and healthy. Members of Team

Wildlife Sanctuary provide daily care for the animals, and are tasked with thinking of new

ways to keep life interesting for them through behavioural enrichment.

Team Sanctuary Expansion: In our quest to create ever greener pastures for the rescued

animals in our care, we are expanding our Main Sanctuary Area. We envision a beautiful,

lush island for green iguanas, surrounded by a moat with fresh, flowing water for turtles to

swim in. Team Sanctuary Expansion is tasked with making this vision a reality.

Team Wildlife Rescue: Wildlife Rescue volunteers join our experienced rescue officers on

daily missions to save injured, displaced and trapped wild animals in Singapore.

Team Wildlife Advisory: Team Wildlife Advisory volunteers help create much-needed

awareness materials on wildlife protection issues throughout our community, in print and

online.

Team Monkey Guards: Our Monkey Guards Team was created to provide information,

education and solutions to the public on all things macaque.

Team Operations: Volunteers are needed to assist with various development projects at the

ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre, including sanctuary expansion for iguanas and turtles,

gardening, renovation and maintenance work.

Team Creatives: Creative and experienced individuals are needed to make trendsetting

educational videos, and enhance our social media platforms, EDMs and other online and

print materials for greater visibility.


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Team Fundraising

Team Fundraising aims to be a melting pot of fundraisers, designers, creatives, and event

organisers, who can help us to raise the funds we need for our existing and future

programmes.

Team Humane Education: Volunteers are needed to assist with our educational

programmes, including our HEAL (Humane Education For All Life) programme for

kindergartens and primary schools, our rescue centre tours, and our Holiday Weekend

Camp!

Team Roadshow: Our upcoming roadshows promise theatre, drama, song, dance, comedy,

maybe even puppetry! Volunteers are needed to help revamp our roadshows and take them

out to reach all corners of Singapore.

Team Investigation: Wildlife crime and animal cruelty is happening right here in Singapore.

By joining the Team Investigation and assisting with undercover investigations, volunteers

have a unique opportunity to make a direct difference in the mission to end animal cruelty

and fight wildlife crime.

Team Legal: Team Legal handles exciting advocacy matters such as campaigning for law

reforms and building a case for prosecuting those who commit crimes against animals.

Anyone with a background in law or advocacy is invited to join the Team Legal.

5.2 WILDLIFE GUARDIANS AND WILDLIFE RESCUE VOLUNTEER PROGRAMMES

The ACRES Wildlife Guardians programme offers members of the public aged 17 and above

an exciting opportunity to play a hands-on role in the work of the AWRC. After undergoing a

comprehensive training programme, Wildlife Guardians can assist with animal care duties

including preparing food, cleaning enclosures and providing environmental enrichment for

the rescued animals at the AWRC. They can also assist in the daily operations and

maintenance of the AWRC, e.g. gardening, giving guided tours to visitors etc. We also offer

the Wildlife Rescue volunteer programme, whereby volunteers undergo special training and

can then assist with our native wildlife rescue work “on the road”.

This year, many more Wildlife Guardians and Wildlife Rescue volunteers have been

recruited and trained. We are delighted to welcome them to ACRES Team and look forward

to their regular assistance.


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Wildlife Guardians training session, January 2015.

5.3 WILDLIFE SANCTUARY VOLUNTEER PROGRAMME

The opening of the outdoor Main Sanctuary area at the AWRC in November 2013 enabled a

new Wildlife Sanctuary Volunteer Programme to begin, offering an exciting opportunity for

members of the public to become even more involved in the day to day care of the rescued

reptiles at the AWRC. Volunteers must commit to helping at the centre at least twice a

month and are tasked with duties such as maintaining and cleaning of outdoor enclosures

and ponds, preparing enrichment, observing the animals’ behaviour and feeding the

animals.

This year, we’ve recruited many more volunteers to the Wildlife Sanctuary Volunteer

programme, and their involvement has been vital to the ongoing work at the AWRC.


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5.4 ACRES VOLUNTEER DAYS

Towards the end of 2014 we organised three Volunteer Days at the AWRC, on the 16th of

October 2014, the 16th of November 2014 and the 20th of December 2014. These Volunteer

Days gave our supporters a chance to play a really hand-on role in helping animals! The

extra helping hands really helped us to achieve a lot for the animals, with the volunteers

working hard on the ongoing expansion and refurbishment work at the the ACRES Wildlife

Rescue Centre!

Our hardworking team of volunteers for the November Volunteer Day.

Volunteers getting to know each other, at the December Volunteer Day.

5.5 ACRES OPEN HOUSE AND VOLUNTEER DAY

We held a combined Open House and Volunteer Day at the AWRC on the 8th of February

2015. The Open House provided an opportunity for members of the public to learn more

about the work of ACRES and ask any questions, as well learn more about the volunteer

programmes we offer and meet fellow animal enthusiasts! After a presentation and tour of


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the AWRC, participants then had the chance to stay and try out a few hours of volunteer

work!

The participants helped a great deal with the ongoing revamping and refurbishing work at

the AWRC, and also general day to day maintenance tasks.

Inspired to make a difference after our presentation, volunteers get busy at the February

Open House/ Volunteer Day.

5.6 LAOS WILDLIFE SANCTUARY VOLUNTEER TRIP

In June 2014, we organised a volunteer trip to the ACRES Laos Wildlife Sanctuary, providing

an exciting opportunity for members of the public to play a direct role in improving the

welfare of animals rescued from the illegal wildlife trade.

Seven volunteers made the journey to Laos, to assist with providing the day to day care for

the animals, as well as providing behavioural enrichment for the elephant, bears, leopard

and golden cat. They were also kept busy with building two shelters and a resting platform

inside the Asiatic black bear enclosure.


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5.7 THANKING OUR VOLUNTEERS!

The animals can’t say thank you, so we always make sure we do it for them!

And when our volunteers go the extra mile, we make sure we organise a little something to

say thank you.

In July 2014, we organised an Appreciation Dinner at Genesis@Boat Quay to say thank you

to our hardworking gala dinner volunteers.

In August 2014 we held a special dinner to show our appreciation for all the volunteers who

took care of the AWRC and wildlife rescue duties while the ACRES staff attended the

organisation’s staff retreat.

The volunteers who made the ACRES staff retreat possible!


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In December 2014 we held a special Volunteer Appreciation Night, to recognise the valuable

contribution made by our amazing volunteers. Special thanks to Drinkdings for sponsoring

the mobile bar.

5.4 STUDENTS VOLUNTEERING FOR ANIMALS

This year, we’ve had the pleasure of working with volunteers from the following schools,

polytechnics and universities. These passionate youths lent their time, skills and most of all

their passion to make a difference

Students from UWCSEA Dover helped with gardening and maintenance work at the

Main Sanctuary Area on the 1st of October 2014.

Students from River Valley Girls Guides helped with gardening and maintenance

work at the Main Sanctuary Area on the 3rd, 12th and 13th of November 2014.


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Two students from Ngee Ann Polytechnic signed up as Wildlife Sanctuary volunteers

through the Ngee Ann Polytechnic Temporary Job Portal. They started volunteering

with us in November 2014.

Students from Meridian Junior College volunteered at the Main Sanctuary Area from

the 5th to the 12th of December 2014.

Students from the National University of Singapore volunteered at the Main

Sanctuary Area from the 23rd to the 30th of December 2014.

Students from Temasek Polytechnic volunteered at the ACRES Charity Car Wash on

the 14th of December 2014.

Students from the School of Germany helped with gardening and maintenance work

at the ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre on the 21st of January 2015.

Students from the School of Penang (Upland) helped to paint the volunteer rooms at

the Volunteer House and refurbish other areas of the ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre

(AWRC) from the 13th to the 16th of January 2015.


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Students from Singapore American School volunteered with ACRES during the SAS

Interim Week, on the 6th, 9th, 10th and 12th of February 2015.

Stamford American School students volunteered at the AWRC on the 13th of March

2015.

Students from St. Joseph’s Institution International volunteered at the AWRC from

the 30th of March to the 2nd of April 2015.

Students from UWCSEA invited us to hold a workshop on enrichment for rescued

wild animals for their students. Putting into practise what they learned, they then

upcycled various materials into environmental enrichment items for the animals at

the AWRC, and brought them to the AWRC for the animals

The tortoises and turtles enjoyed investigating the environmental enrichment provided by

the students from UWCSEA!

A special mention goes to NPS International School, which has been sending groups of

students to volunteer at the AWRC regularly throughout the year. Their contribution has


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been great and their enthusiasm, hard work and commitment has really made a positive

difference.

We were delighted to be invited to attend the Graduation Ceremony for the students at NPS

International School on the 20th of March 2015, and thrilled to be nominated as the Best

Volunteer Organisation for the year 2014 and to receive a generous donation from the

school.

5.5 COLLECTION OF DONATIONS IN KIND

At the ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre (AWRC), we get through a lot of supplies, and one thing

that helps us enormously to keep costs down is the donation of items. Students from the

following school have supported the work of the AWRC this year by collecting and donating

various essential items:

CHIJ St. Joseph Convent

CHIJ St. Nicholas Girls School

St. Joseph’s Institution International

Students from St. Joseph’s Institution International delivering much-needed supplies!

5.6 INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEERS

This year we once again welcomed volunteers from all over the world to join us in making a


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difference for animals!

• Charlotte Phelps from New Zealand

volunteered with the animal care department

in April 2014. She also volunteered at the

ACRES Lao Wildlife Sanctuary from April to

May.

• Wilson Wong from Malaysia volunteered with

the animal care and wildlife rescue

department in July 2014. He also helped at the

End Animal Cruelty carnival in July 2014.

• Nike Novandi from Indonesia volunteered with

the animal care and wildlife rescue department in July 2014.

Here’s what Nike had to say about his time with ACRES:

“I’ve had a great time and experience volunteering with ACRES. It was my first time

volunteering and I decided to volunteer for an animal welfare organisation, so I chose ACRES

which I found on the internet. One unforgettable choice in my life that I will never regret.

It wasn’t really surprising to know that the food they served there was non-meat. They

deeply dedicate their lives for animals, which is very amazing. For two weeks I have become

a vegetarian, and now I wish to adopt their lifestyle. Fake meats and vegetables aren’t bad

at all. In fact, they’re tasty.

The staff were super friendly and welcoming. They treated every volunteer like family. I felt

homesick the first night, but I missed ACRES already in Changi Airport.

Surely I will get back to ACRES someday.

My deepest gratitude to ACRES! Keep fighting for animal welfare.

Jose Quiros from the Dominican Republic volunteered with the animal care

department in October 2014.


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Sarah Mans from Germany volunteered with the animal care department from

January to February 2015. Sarah also took the opportunity to join the Outreach

Team and helped out at our educational public roadshows.

5.7 INTERNS

We really have our hands full with all our various projects, so we appreciate all the help we

can get! One such valuable source of help is our interns, who commit a few weeks or

months to helping out in one or more of our busy departments. Their help has been

extremely valuable, and they have each been very welcome members of the ACRES team!

We hope that their time at ACRES has provided valuable work experience, and wish them all

the best in their future endeavours.

Chong Xian Jie interned with the animal care and veterinary department in August

2014.

Demi Lister from Chatsworth International School interned with the animal care

department in November 2014.

Priscilla Teh Kin Rui, Charmaine Sng Li Wen and Sim Yu Jie from Meridian Junior

College’s Outstanding Students Attachment Programme interned with us in

November 2014, assisting with the animal care department, as well as with

administrative and advocacy work.

Ethan Soh, Grace Cheong, Merwyn Lee and Harleen Kuar Sidhu from Pioneer Junior

College interned with the animal care department in December 2014


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Vivien Cheok, a student of the University of Sydney, interned with the animal care

department in December 2014.

Su-en Chua from the University of Melbourne was on attachment with us in January

2015, assisting with animal care work.

Sara Oka from the University of Melbourne was on attachment with us in January


Nikita Sanal from the University of Melbourne was on attachment with us in January


Wesley Cheung from the University of Sydney was on attachment with us in January



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Denise Ang from the University of Melbourne was on attachment with us in January


Ng Boon Jun from Massey University was on attachment with us from January to

February 2015, assisting with animal care work. As part of his veterinary medicine

course, he was required to complete a few weeks of extramural placement.

Ralene Fok from Murdoch University was on attachment with us in February 2015,

assisting with animal care work. As part of her veterinary medicine course, she was

required to complete a few weeks of extramural placement.

Laura Khoo from University of Queensland was on attachment with us in February

2015, assisting with animal care work. As part of her veterinary medicine course, she

was required to complete a few weeks of extramural placement.

DaEun Chua from the German European School was on attachment with us in March


Aneesha Shetty, who recently graduated from St. Joseph’s Institution International,

previously helped ACRES as a volunteer. She returned to complete an internship with

us starting in March 2015, assisting with animal care work.


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Here are some testimonials from some of our interns:

Su-En : “My time volunteering here has been great and passed by faster than I thought it would. Of

course there were times when the sun was scorching, tasks were labour intensive, poop was aplenty

and days were long and tiring, but where I found the most satisfaction in offering my services to

ACRES was firstly through interacting with the wildlife and knowing, with my hard work, I was caring

for the animals which might not have had the best start to their life.

But more importantly, I found joy through learning from the staff members of ACRES.

Everyone had their own piece of knowledge that they imparted to me and I've learnt about

reptile handling, behaviour, treatment, husbandry and other fun facts the team went out of

the way to show me. Their genuine compassion is inspiring.

Both humans and animals alike have created such a lovely atmosphere and workplace to

have spent my time volunteering at!

Thanks ACRES, for the opportunity! And also showing me that lizards, tortoises and pigeons

can be strangely endearing. I will miss their unique personalities loads:)”

Sara: “I have had a wonderful experience volunteering here for the past month. I learnt so

much about reptiles and I got to work closely with the tortoises. During this time I learnt

their unique habits, favourite food and preferred hiding spots! The friendly ACRES staff and

volunteers made it a very nice environment to work in and it was great to be around people

who love animals too. Sarah, the Veterinarian, also taught me a lot and gave me many

opportunities to carry out treatments. The new skills that I have gained from this experience

will definitely benefit me in the future.”


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Su-En and Sara.

Denise: “Overall, I did learn quite a bit from Veterinarian Sara; really grateful to her for

letting us do hands on with the reptiles and explaining with patience. The staff in ACRES

were very friendly too as well as the volunteers. I managed to hold a lizard, Savannah, for

the first time in my life for her treatment and water bath. I'm glad we are given the chance

to experience this for ourselves. Also, the tortoises and turtles treatment was a new learning

experience as well. We also managed to watch snake feeding and participate as well. It was

amazing.

Thanks for giving me the opportunity to volunteer at ACRES as it made me more keen on

reptile studies, as well as more aware of the illegal wildlife trade in Singapore.”

Ng Boon Jun: “I volunteered at ACRES as part of my clinical placement because of my

interest in wildlife. I was in awe the first time I stepped into ACRES when I saw the large

number of wild animals present. The two weeks spent there passed by quickly as I helped out

in cleaning and treatment, and these tasks helped me better understand the animals that I

was taking care of. Other than learning husbandry and medical skills, I came to realise how

little known and misunderstood local wildlife is. From the conflicts between native animals


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and people to illegal exotic pet trade, the stories told reflected the vast problems that are

often neglected by many. There is still a lot of work yet to be done for the animals, but I

believe every bit of effort counts. Also, the staff in ACRES made my time there very

enjoyable. They are a very fun and approachable bunch whose shared passion for animals

can be contagious, and when it comes to work they are really professional. I am especially

thankful that they allowed me to do a lot of handling and hands-on stuff, and also trust me

enough to assign individual tasks to me. I am glad to have been a part of ACRES

volunteering programme and play my part in helping the rehabilitation of the animals. After

obtaining all these valuable experiences, I hope to return to ACRES in the near future and to

play a greater role in wildlife conservation and education.”

Laura Khoo: “ACRES staff are friendly, helpful and approachable. Workload is quite

challenging for one person to handle alone. Overall, it was a very enjoyable experience. I'm

willing to volunteer again if I have the time”.

6. PPAARRTTNNEERRSSHHIIPPSS

Our heartfelt thanks go to the following companies and organisations which have supported

ACRES this year.

6.1 SPH FOUNDATION

Our thanks go to the SPH Foundation for continuing to sponsor the diesel for the ACRES

Wildlife Rescue Van, enabling us to save the lives of thousands of wild animals every year.

6.2 DEUTSCHE BANK

Deutsche Bank generously sponsored the major upgrading and expansion work at the Main

Sanctuary Area of the AWRC. Their donation, as well as the hands-on support of their


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volunteers, resulted in the creation of a new tortoise enclosure, as well as improvements to

existing enclosures and to the Main Sanctuary Area overall.

6.3 GREEN ROOM CAFE

ACRES held a three-day roadshow at the Green Room Café from the 9th to the 11th of May

2014. Green Room Café generously offered a month-long meal promotion to the public,

raising funds for ACRES. This partnership was in conjunction with Vesak Day, with the

purpose of turning mindsets away from destructive ‘compassionate’ deeds such as animal

releasing, and offering a more beneficial way to give back to society and to animals and

nature. People gathered at the cafe to have delicious and healthy ‘green’ meals, learning

about animal protection at the same time.

6.4 CICADA TREE ECO-PLACE

On the 27th of September 2014, Cicada Tree Eco-Place held a Malayan Tiger Benefit Dinner,

to raise funds for projects that benefit tigers. They generously donated 10% of the proceeds,

around $4,000, to aid our efforts to tackle the illegal trade in tiger parts in Singapore.

6.5 CHENG TAI NURSERY

Cheng Tai Nursery donated a large number of plants to the ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre as

a thank you for rescuing a snake from their premises.

6.6 DRINKDINGS

Drinkdings kindly sponsored a mobile bar at our Volunteer Appreciation Night held at ACRES

HQ in December 2014. Their contribution made the night even more special for our hard-

working volunteers!

7. CORPORATE / FOUNDATION VOLUNTEERING

This year we have enjoyed the support of the following companies, whose employees have

joined us at the AWRC for various volunteer activities and achieved so much for the animals!

Our thanks to the staff and management of the following companies for their support, and

we look forward to future collaborations.

DB Schenker

Deutsche Bank

IHS Global Pte Ltd

Ian Somerhalder Foundation Singapore (ISF)


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Ten volunteers from DB Schenker volunteered at the Main Sanctuary Area on the 28th of

April 2014.

Twenty volunteers from Deutsche Bank volunteered at the Main Sanctuary Area on the 31st

of May 2014. The hard-working team achieved a tremendous amount on the day, building

bricked walls and completing a new tortoise enclosure, installing new night dens and

upgrading existing night dens for the star tortoise enclosures, and planting lots of plants in

and around the outdoor enclosures. Generous funding from Deutsche Bank covered the cost

of these improvements.

Twenty-four volunteers from IHS Global Pte Ltd helped with gardening and maintenance

work at the Main Sanctuary Area on the 12th of September. Their hard work and the

presence of so many extra pairs of hands assisted us enormously with the ongoing

improvement and expansion work. The company generously donated many new plants that

were installed in and around the enclosures on the day, making the animals’ habitats even

more naturalistic than before.


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Twenty-one volunteers from Ian Somerhalder Foundation Singapore (ISF) joined us at the

ACRES Charity Car Wash on 14th December 2014, helping to raise funds for our programmes

to end animal cruelty.

88.. SSPPEECCIIAALL PPEEOOPPLLEE

We would like to say a big thank you to each of our supporters who, in so many ways, have

helped us towards our shared goal of a world with no animal cruelty. We thank each and

every one of you for your kindness, dedication and generosity.

8.1 STUDENT FUNDRAISING

Once again this year, we’ve been delighted to see passionate youths going the extra mile to

help animals, and inspiring all those around them by their efforts.


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Students from the following schools have carried out fundraising projects for ACRES this

year. Thank you to everyone involved, for initiating these meaningful projects and helping

ACRES to help even more animals.

• Greenview Secondary School. Students held a fundraising “Animal Roadshow”.

• Yio Chu Kang Secondary School. Students held a “Wildlife In Singapore” fundraising

roadshow.

• CHIJ St. Nicholas Girls School. Students carried out fundraising activities.

• Clementi Town Secondary School. Students organised a mini-fundraising event.

• Chung Cheng High School. Students raised funds through their “Saving the Dolphins”

project.

• CHIJ St. Nicholas Girls School. Students raised funds through a roadshow, and also by

selling books.

• Juying Primary School. P6 students and their teachers raised funds at the Juying

Primary School Open House.

• Anderson Secondary School. Students held a bake sale of vegan cookies to raise

funds.

• Kent Ridge Secondary School.

• Little Skool House.

• Cedar Girls Secondary School. Students launched “Project Metamorphosis”, raising

funds by selling notebooks.

8.2 OUR WILDLIFE WARRIORS!

The running scene is growing in Singapore. ACRES established a running team in 2014 to

allow like-minded runners to come together to raise funds and awareness for the animals.

ACRES Wildlife Warriors have been working together with various running groups to embark

on fundraising opportunities. With monthly training sessions, the team is further inspired to


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run and create change. These runners have been running in various races in Singapore

throughout this year.

We’d like to thank all of the Wildlife Warriors for their efforts this year for the animals!

Some of the Wildlife Warriors!

8.2 THANK YOU UWCSEA

We’d like to thank the staff from United World College Southeast Asia (UWCSEA) Dover

for raising $3,000 for our animal protection programmes, at their highly entertaining “Staff

got Talent 2014” show on the 5th of September 2014.


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AADDDDRREESSSSIINNGG ZZOOOO AANNIIMMAALL WWEELLFFAARREE

Addressing zoo animal welfare issues is where it all began for ACRES, and we never forget

the animals in substandard zoos who need our voice. We remain committed to continuing

our efforts to engage with the zoo community and improve zoo animal welfare throughout

Asia,

We also remain committed to addressing the exploitation of dolphins by the captive dolphin

industry.

1. WILDLIFE RESERVES SINGAPORE

ACRES continues to engage in positive dialogue with Wildlife Reserves Singapore (WRS), to

work together to improve the welfare of the animals kept at their facilities.

This year, we’ve worked together with WRS to improve the welfare of the sea lions at the

Singapore Zoo. We’ve also held discussions about the welfare of other animals at the

Singapore Zoo, Night Safari and River Safari.

We applaud the decision of the Singapore to end the use of elephants for elephant rides,

announced in December 2014. This is something that ACRES has been recommending for

many years.

2. MALAYSIA ZOO ANIMAL WELFARE PROGRAMME UPDATES

Over the past few years, ACRES has been working on establishing a programme to tackle zoo

animal welfare issues in Malaysia, involving Malaysian NGOs, the zoo community and the

government.

We were delighted when Malaysian legislation to safeguard the welfare of zoo animals was

improved, with the enactment of the Wildlife Conservation (Operation of Zoo) Regulations

2012.

Since then, ACRES, has continued to be involved with improving the welfare of zoo animals

in Malaysia, and ensuring that the law is enforced. We have been pleased that some of the

worst zoos have been closed down.

On the 12th of January 2015, we met with representatives from PERHILITAN (Malaysia’s

Department of Wildlife and National Parks) and MAZPA (Malaysian Association of Zoological

Parks and Aquaria), as well as representatives of NGOS Ape Malaysia, Wild Welfare, iM4U


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and P4PHM, to discuss the current situation regarding Malaysia’s zoos and the enforcement

of the new law, as well as how we can all collaborate and move forward.

ACRES has continued to be invited to jointly inspect Malaysian zoos together with

PERHILITAN. In February 2015, ACRES conducted a joint inspection of Bukit Merah Laketown

Resort Ecopark and Orang Utan Island.

We look forward to seeing zoo animal welfare standards continue to improve in Malaysia,

with NGOs and the government working together towards the same goal, and will continue

to monitor whether the law is being enforced.

4. ZOO ANIMAL WELFARE: CONFERENCES ATTENDED

Since 2001, ACRES has been attending conferences every year to highlight the need to

improve zoo animal welfare standards at some zoos in the Southeast Asia region and to

network with those in the zoo industry and other NGOs to work together towards this goal.

Louis Ng, Chief Executive of ACRES, attended the WAZA (World Association of Zoos and

Aquariums) conference from New Delhi in November 2014. The WAZA conference provides

a valuable opportunity to network with others in the zoo industry and learn about the latest

developments in zoo animal welfare.

5. SAVE THE WORLD’S SADDEST DOLPHINS CAMPAIGN

This year, ACRES has continued calling for Resorts World Sentosa to work with ACRES and

other organisations to rehabilitate and release the 23 remaining wild-caught dolphins held

captive at their attraction in Singapore.

Details of the “Save the World’s Saddest Dolphins” campaign can be found at the official

campaign website www.saddestdolphins.com

5.1 CONTINUING TO RAISE OUR CONCERNS ABOUT THE WILD-CAUGHT DOLPHINS HELD

CAPTIVE AT RESORTS WORLD SENTOSA

On the 13th of April 2014, ACRES conducted an inspection of Dolphin Island, the area in

which the dolphins are housed at Resort World Sentosa. We observed the dolphins

displaying abnormal stereotypic behaviours, namely swimming the same route over and

over again.


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On the 11th of May, a female dolphin, given the name Sharmila by Resorts World, died under

the care of RWS. She was the fourth dolphin to have died under their care. ACRES expressed

our grave concern for the welfare and health of the remaining dolphins to the numerous

media agencies which covered the news.

5.2 BLACKFISH SCREENING AND DIALOGUE SESSION

ACRES held an exclusive screening of Blackfish at Shaw Theatres Lido on the 26th of August

2014 to a sell-out crowd, raising awareness about why cetaceans do not belong in captivity.

The screening was co-organised by The Dorsal Effect, and generously sponsored by Shaw

Organisation, Innoform Media, and Bar4Rent.

We subsequently organised an exclusive “Blackfish: Meet the Stars” dialogue session on the

30th of October 2014 with Samantha Berg, former SeaWorld animal trainer and one of the

stars of Blackfish, and Dr. Naomi Rose, a senior marine mammal scientist at the Animal

Welfare Institute. The Dialogue session was well-attended and showed that many members

of the public are passionate about keeping cetaceans in the wild, where they belong.


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OOTTHHEERR NNEEWWSS

1. PUBLIC SURVEY REVEALS STRONG SUPPORT FOR ANIMAL PROTECTION BY

SINGAPOREANS AND DISAGREEMENT ON ANIMAL CULLING MEASURES

Findings from the first-ever comprehensive public survey on animal protection issues in

Singapore revealed that animal protection is important to Singaporeans and only a minority

agrees with the current animal culling measures.

In January 2015, Millward Brown Singapore, global brand, media and communication

consultancy, partnered with ACRES to better understand Singaporeans’ concerns and

perspectives towards animal protection. Millward Brown spoke to 600 Singaporeans though

an independent mobile survey.

Key findings of the survey were:

79% of Singaporeans agree that animal protection is important to them.

71% of Singaporeans agree that nature reserves are important to them.

10% of Singaporeans feel that shark’s fin consumption should be allowed.

14% of Singaporeans feel that stray dog culling should be allowed.

13% of Singaporeans feel that monkey culling should be allowed.

14% of Singaporeans feel that wild boar culling should be allowed.

36% of Singaporeans agree that the government is doing enough on animal protection.

5% of Singaporeans disagree on harsher penalties with regard to the import/export/re-export and/or possession of endangered species.

75% of Singaporeans are willing to support ACRES in advocating for an end to animal cruelty.

The survey also showed stronger support by Gen Y as compared to Gen X on several animal

protection issues. 83% of Gen Y Singaporeans (as compared to 70% of Gen X Singaporeans)

agree that animal protection is important to them and 81% of Gen Y Singaporeans (as

compared to 63% of Gen X Singaporeans) are willing to support ACRES in advocating for an

end to animal cruelty.

The survey findings are very encouraging. Animal protection is clearly an issue close to the

heart of Singaporeans, and this shows a strong sense of compassion in our society. While

animals continue to be culled in Singapore due to public complaints, the findings here

indicate that the complaints are from a minority of Singaporeans. We look forward towards

working closely with the government on exploring and implementing alternative long-term

humane solutions that will address both public and animal protection concerns.


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2. ANIMALS AND BIRDS (AMENDMENT) BILL PASSED IN PARLIAMENT, RESULTING IN

BETTER PROTECTION FOR ANIMALS BY LAW

ACRES is a member of the Animal Welfare Legislation Review Committee (AWLRC). The

AWLRC, formed in April 2012, is chaired by Mr Yeo Guat Kwang, Member of Parliament (MP)

for Ang Mo Kio Group Representation Constituency (GRC), and Member of the Government

Parliamentary Committee (GPC) for National Development. It comprises MPs, community

leaders, and representatives from animal welfare groups, the pet industry and the

veterinary profession. The Committee was set up to review the current legislation on animal

welfare and recommend to the Government amendments to strengthen the legislation on

animal welfare, and to recommend approaches to enhance stakeholders’ collaboration on

animal welfare.

As a result of a one of the adopted recommendations by the Animal Welfare Legislation

Review Committee, in October 2013, the Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration Committee

(MSCC) was established as a platform for stakeholders to share their views on animal

welfare and to promote collaborative efforts. The MSCC and comprises representatives

from the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA), the pet industry, animal welfare groups,

veterinary professionals, and the community. Louis Ng, Chief Executive of ACRES, serves in

the MSCC.

The Terms of Reference (TOR) of the MSCC are to: (i) Build up mutual understanding on

animal welfare through sharing of views; and (ii) Strengthen multi-stakeholder collaboration

to promote animal welfare in Singapore.

The three key areas that the MSCC are concerned with are: Codes of Animal Welfare (for pet

owners and the pet industry); Industry-led accreditation schemes (for groomers, breeders

and pet retailers); and fostering greater responsibility among pet owners, and greater

community awareness of animal welfare through collaborative community outreach and

education.

To support the MSCC, three Working Groups (WG) were set up to discuss and propose

initiatives as appropriate to the areas assigned, working under the guidance and direction of

the MSCC. One of these is the Working Group on the Codes of Animal Welfare.

In early 2014, the MSCC invited the public to provide their feedback on the Codes of Animal

Welfare for pet owners and pet industry via the REACH portal www.reach.gov.sg. This e-

consultation took place from the 28th of January until the 28th of February 2014. The

Working Group on the Codes of Animal Welfare subsequently finalised the Codes, after

taking into consideration the public feedback from this e-consultation. The finalised Codes

were presented to the MSCC for endorsement ahead of the tabling of the Private Member’s

Bill in Parliament - the Animals and Birds (Amendment) Bill - on the amendments to the

Animals & Birds Act (to effect the legislative changes arising from the recommendations

made by the Animal Welfare Legislative Review Committee).


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Mr Yeo Guat Kwang tabled a Private Member’s Bill in Parliament to amend the Animals and

Birds Act to give effect to some of the recommendations made by the Animal Welfare

Legislation Review Committee (AWLRC). The second reading of the Bill took place on the 4th

of November 2015, tabled by Members of Parliament Yeo Guat Kwang, Alex Yam, Gan

Thiam Poh, Edwin Tong and Vikram Nair. We were delighted that the Animals and Birds

(Amendment) Bill was passed on the 5th of November 2015, after more than two years of

work.

The Bill affects pet owners, animal-related businesses, animal shelters, people who foster

animals and those who care for animals on behalf of family or friends. Legislation previously

prohibited a wide range of cruel conduct to animals, from beating, kicking, ill-treatment to

abandonment. But under the new law, these groups must not only avoid such acts, but they

must also provide a positive duty of care. This means they must take steps to ensure that

efforts are taken to recover a missing animal and ensure that an animal is cared for in

accordance with Codes of Animal Welfare.

It also means that animals should be:

- Provided with adequate and suitable food and water.96

- Given adequate shelter.

- Not confined or physically handled to cause unreasonable or unnecessary pain and

suffering.

- Protected from and receive rapid diagnosis of any significant injury or disease.

Staff working with animals in relevant businesses must be trained in animal care and

handling. A panel formed by the Government last year to strengthen collaboration for

animal welfare will work with the Singapore Workforce Development Agency and the

Employment and Employability Institute (e2i) to standardise the training and raise the

number of training providers.

For the first time, those found guilty of pet negligence will face a penalty of up to $20,000

and/or a two-year jail term.

The new law will also toughen the penalties against those convicted of animal cruelty.

Previously, animal abusers faced fines of up to $10,000 and/or a one-year jail term. Now,

this will go up to a maximum fine of $30,000 and/or a three-year jail term.

Animal-related businesses that contravene the new law will face fines of up to $100,000

and/or a three-year jail term. This is up from the maximum $10,000 fine and/or a one-year

jail term.

Businesses that do not provide training for staff can be fined up to $5,000, face a maximum

jail term of six months, or both. They can also be banned from doing business for up to a

year.


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The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) will have more enforcement powers, such as l

issuing written directives to owners.

AVA officers can also take photographs, audio and video recordings for evidence, and the

crime no longer needs to be committed in their presence.

Those who do not comply face a $10,000 fine and/or one-year jail term. Businesses that do

not comply with directives face fines of up to $20,000, a jail term of up to 12 months, or

both.

3. FIRST TRAP-NEUTER-RELEASE PROGRAMME FOR STRAY DOGS ON JURONG ISLAND

In May 2014, ACRES presented a Position Paper on the implementation of a Trap Neuter

Release Manage Programme for street dogs in Singapore to Minister Of State, Mr. Desmond

Lee.

December 2014 saw Singapore has start its first programme to trap, neuter and release

stray dogs. This pilot project, on Jurong Island, aims control the population (estimated at

300 dogs) without culling them. Studies in other countries have shown that Trap Neuter

Release Manage (TNRM) programmes effectively reduce stray dog numbers over time.

Neutered individuals also tend to be less aggressive.

The project is a partnership between industrial landlord JTC, which has built a facility on the

island to sterilise the dogs, and ACRES, Action for Singapore Dogs (ASD) and Save Our Street

Dogs (SOSD). ACRES is overseeing the project, with ASD and SOSD managing the day to day

hands-on operations. ACRES has also been giving presentations to and distributing

educational materials to the management personal of companies located on Jurong Island

to explain the programme, and advise on measures they may take to minimise stray dog

incidences within their premises.

4. LOUIS NG AND ACRES RECEIVE ADVOCACY AWARDS

In August 2015, the advocacy work of ACRES was acknowledged by the Singapore Advocacy

Awards; Singapore’s first advocacy awards initiative. Chief Executive of ACRES, Louis Ng, was

awarded the accolade of Advocate of the Year, whilst ACRES was named as an Honouree in

the category of Advocacy Organisation of the Year.

We’d like to thank the organisers of the Singapore Advocacy Awards for recognising the

work of ACRES.


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MEDIA COVERAGE

The work of ACRES has been covered by 77 media features this financial year, including print

media and digital media articles and television programmes.

A highlight was the work of ACRES being featured in WildCity, a two-part documentary

featuring Singapore’s native wildlife and narrated by Sir. David Attenborough. ACRES was

featured in the episode which aired on the 22nd of March episode.


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Annual Report 2014-2015 - Acres

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